File. A Nigerian Policeman
The Plateau State Police Command has arrested another suspect in connection with the alleged mob killing of University of Jos graduate Ibrahim Mbaya.
The Command described the arrest as another major breakthrough in its ongoing investigation into the tragic incident, which sparked widespread outrage following the death of the undergraduate after he was allegedly tortured by a mob over accusations of theft.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Plateau State Command, SP Alfred Alabo, disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday in Jos.
According to the statement, detectives acting on credible intelligence arrested Yusuf Christopher Beskeni, a 24-year-old male, for his alleged involvement in the incident.
The police boss said preliminary investigations and evidence gathered so far indicated that the suspect played an active role in the unlawful assault on the deceased.
He alleged that Beskeni participated in tying Mbaya to a pole while members of the mob subjected him to severe torture, an attack that eventually led to his death.
“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 Command added that the suspect is currently in police custody and is assisting investigators, while efforts have been intensified to track down other suspects who remain at large.
The acting Commissioner of Police in Plateau State, DCP Usman Sheikh Adamu, assured the family of the deceased and the people of Plateau State that the Command remains committed to ensuring justice is served.
He said no individual found to have participated in the torture and eventual death of Mbaya would escape prosecution.
“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,” the Commissioner stated.
The Command reiterated its determination to arrest every person connected with the crime and urged members of the public with useful information that could assist the investigation to cooperate with the police.
The police also reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the rights of all citizens and ensuring that anyone found culpable in the case is prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Recall that Ibrahim Mbaya, a University of Jos graduate popularly known as “Ibee”, 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.
The incident triggered widespread outrage and renewed calls for an end to jungle justice.
With the latest arrest, the total number of suspects in police custody has risen to five, while detectives continue the manhunt for other fleeing suspects.
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