Muhammed Abubakar, Reporting
POLICE in Plateau State have apprehended four suspects in connection with the brutal killing of a 25-year-old student who was beaten to death over allegations he stole an iPhone 12.
Ibrahim Mbaya, a student at the University of Jos, was pronounced dead on arrival at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) on July 26, 2026, after being set upon by a mob who accused him of theft.
The four suspects arrested have been named as Rinji Daniel Fwanji, 25; Emmanuel Newyear, 30; Nensemka Fwanji, 22; and Tisloh Joshua. Both the victim and the suspects are students of the same institution, Daily Champion understands.
In a statement issued to journalists on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer for Plateau State Command, ASP Alfred Alabo, confirmed that the victim was brought to the hospital at approximately 11:20pm by a group of youths.
“Mbaya was confirmed dead on arrival and his body has been deposited at the JUTH mortuary for preservation and autopsy,” Alabo stated.
The police spokesperson revealed that Emmanuel Newyear was captured in a viral video using a large wooden plank to assault the deceased, and was also identified in photographs obtained during the investigation.
According to the police, the suspects told investigators that the victim was suspected of stealing an iPhone 12. However, rather than reporting the matter to the authorities, they took the law into their own hands and beat him unconscious.
“The suspects have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Jos for discreet investigation,” Alabo said. “Efforts are ongoing to arrest other fleeing suspects. Upon conclusion of the investigation, they will be charged to court.”
The Command issued a strong condemnation of what it described as “jungle justice.”
“No individual or group has the legal authority to assault or kill a suspect,” Alabo emphasised. “Nigeria’s Administration of Criminal Justice System provides lawful procedures, and every suspect is entitled to due process.”
He urged the public to report cases of theft, assault, or any crime to the nearest police station or recognised security agency.
“Self-help and mob action undermine the rule of law and exposes perpetrators to prosecution,” he warned.
The police appealed to the public to remain calm, law-abiding, and to provide credible information to assist policing efforts.
The tragic incident has reignited concerns about mob justice in Plateau State, where vigilante-style actions have claimed numerous lives in recent years.
