The Plateau State Police Command has arrested three suspects following the death of Ibrahim Mbaya, a 25-year-old University of Jos graduate and model, who was allegedly beaten to death after being accused of stealing a mobile phone.
The incident reportedly happened at an off-campus apartment near the City of David area along Ring Road in Jos.
According to sources familiar with the incident, Mbaya had attended a social event at the University of Jos before deciding to spend the night at a friend’s residence because it was too late to return to his home in Rayfield.
Trouble reportedly began the next morning after an iPhone 12 was discovered missing from the apartment. Those present allegedly accused Mbaya of taking the phone, claiming everyone else in the room had been accounted for.
Rather than notifying the police, the suspects allegedly attacked him, beating him with wooden planks and canes. A disturbing video that has since circulated on social media appears to show the victim being repeatedly assaulted before he eventually lost consciousness.
Police spokesperson SP Alabo Alfred said officers received a report from the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) after a Good Samaritan brought an unconscious man to the facility late on July 26.
The victim was identified as Ibrahim Mbaya, but doctors confirmed he was dead on arrival. His remains have since been deposited in the hospital mortuary for an autopsy.
Following an investigation, detectives arrested Rinji Daniel Fwanji (25), Emmanuel Newyear (30), and Nensemka Fwanji (22) in connection with the incident.
According to the police, one of the suspects, Emmanuel Newyear, was identified in a viral video allegedly striking the deceased with a large wooden plank. Investigators also linked him to photographs obtained during the inquiry.
During questioning, the suspects reportedly admitted they believed Mbaya had stolen an iPhone 12. Police said instead of reporting the allegation through the proper legal channels, they allegedly assaulted him until he became unconscious.
The Plateau State Police Command condemned the act, describing it as an unlawful case of jungle justice. It reminded the public that criminal allegations must be handled by law enforcement agencies and that every suspect has a constitutional right to a fair investigation and trial.
Authorities said investigations are continuing, while the three suspects remain in custody pending further legal proceedings.
UNIJOS Graduate Dies After Brutal Assault Over Alleged Missing iPhone, Three Arrested
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