ABUJA, Nigeria — A young man identified as Sunday has reportedly died after he was allegedly stabbed during an attempted phone robbery at MD Abubakar Barracks, Jibi, along the Dei-Dei axis of Abuja, an incident that later sparked protests and clashes between residents and security personnel.
According to eyewitnesses and community sources, the incident occurred on Sunday, June 28, 2026, when the victim was taking photographs with his iPhone 16. Witnesses alleged that a man known locally as "Mai Bola" attempted to snatch the device.
The situation reportedly escalated into a struggle during which Sunday was stabbed. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was later confirmed dead.
Eyewitnesses said residents apprehended the suspected attacker and attempted to lynch him before police officers intervened, rescued the suspect, and took him into custody.
Authorities have yet to issue an official statement identifying the suspect or announcing any formal charges. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation.
Hours after the incident, groups of youths reportedly staged a protest within the barracks community, demanding justice for the deceased.
Witnesses alleged that security personnel dispersed the demonstrators using tear gas after tensions escalated.
Some residents also claimed that gunshots were fired during the operation, although it remains unclear whether they were warning shots or aimed directly at protesters.
Prime Brief Media has not independently verified these claims, and no official casualty figures relating to the protest have been released.
The death of the young man has generated widespread reactions within the barracks community, with residents calling for a transparent investigation and swift prosecution of anyone found responsible.
The incident has also renewed concerns over the growing incidence of violent phone theft in the Federal Capital Territory and the handling of public protests by security agencies.
As of the time of filing this report, the police had not released a detailed statement addressing the alleged robbery, the protest, or the reported arrests.
Prime Brief Media will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more verified information becomes available.
This report is based on eyewitness accounts and community reports. Some details have not yet been independently verified, and official investigations are ongoing.
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