Police Arrest Fifth Suspect in Plateau Mob Killing Case
Plateau Police arrest another suspect linked to Ibrahim Mbaya’s death as investigations into the alleged mob attack continue.
The Plateau State Police Command has arrested another suspect over the alleged mob killing of University of Jos graduate Ibrahim Mbaya, as investigations into the incident continue. The latest arrest brings the number of suspects in custody to five in the Plateau mob killing case.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Alfred Alabo, announced the development in a statement issued on Wednesday in Jos. He said detectives acting on credible intelligence arrested Yusuf Christopher Beskeni, 24, for his alleged involvement in the incident.
According to the police, preliminary investigations showed that the suspect allegedly took part in the assault that led to Mbaya’s death. The Command said Beskeni allegedly helped tie Mbaya to a pole while members of the mob attacked him.
The statement said, “The suspect allegedly played an active role in the unlawful assault on the deceased. He is specifically alleged to have participated in tying the deceased to a pole while he was subjected to severe assault by members of the mob.”
The police confirmed that the suspect remains in custody and is assisting investigators. Authorities said efforts have increased to identify and arrest other suspects who are still at large.
The Acting Commissioner of Police in Plateau State, DCP Usman Sheikh Adamu, assured Mbaya’s family and residents that the Command would continue working to ensure that all individuals found responsible face justice. He said investigators would leave no stone unturned in handling the case and prosecuting those found guilty according to the law.
The police also appealed to members of the public with relevant information to support the investigation by contacting the nearest police station or formation.
The Plateau mob killing incident has attracted widespread condemnation and renewed calls against mob justice in Nigeria. Mbaya, popularly known as “Ibee,” died on July 27 after he was allegedly attacked by a mob following accusations that he stole a mobile phone at an off-campus residence in Jos.
The case has sparked public concern over the dangers of taking the law into people’s hands and the need for stronger protection of citizens’ rights.
With the arrest of Beskeni, police custody now includes five suspects, while investigations continue and officers work to locate others linked to the alleged assault.
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