The Plateau State Police Command has arrested another suspect in connection with the alleged mob killing of a University of Jos graduate, Ibrahim Mbaya, popularly known as “Ibee.”
Mbaya died on July 27 after he was allegedly tortured by a mob over accusations of stealing a mobile phone at an off-campus residence in Jos, an incident that triggered widespread outrage and renewed calls for an end to jungle justice.
The Police Public Relations Officer of the Plateau State Command, SP Alfred Alabo, disclosed the latest arrest in a statement issued on Wednesday in Jos.
According to the statement, detectives acting on credible intelligence arrested 24-year-old Yusuf Christopher Beskeni over his alleged involvement in the unlawful assault that led to Mbaya’s death.
The Command described the arrest as another major breakthrough in its ongoing investigation into the incident.
Police said preliminary investigations and evidence gathered so far indicated that the suspect allegedly played an active role in the attack.
“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 torture by members of the mob, an act which ultimately resulted in the victim’s death,” the statement said.
The police said Beskeni is currently in custody and assisting investigators, while efforts have been intensified to arrest other suspects still at large.
The Acting Commissioner of Police in Plateau State, DCP Usman Sheikh Adamu, assured the family of the deceased and residents of the state that the Command would ensure justice is served.
“The Plateau State Police Command assures the family of the deceased and the good people of Plateau State that no stone will be left unturned in ensuring that all those responsible for the torture and eventual death of Ibrahim Mbaya face the full weight of the law,” he said.
The Command reiterated its determination to arrest everyone connected with the killing and urged members of the public with useful information to cooperate with investigators.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights of citizens and ensuring that anyone found culpable is prosecuted in accordance with the law.