The Nigeria Police Force has announced that it has obtained credible intelligence on the gun suppliers who allegedly armed the gang responsible for the killing of Arise News anchor, Somtochukwu Maduagwu.
The discovery comes after the arrest of twelve suspects connected to the armed robbery and murder that occurred on September 29, 2025, at Unique Apartments in Katampe Extension, Abuja. During the incident, Maduagwu and a security guard, identified as Barnabas Danlami, were shot dead.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the weapons used in the attack were sourced from a dealer in Niger Republic.
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Those arrested have been identified as Shamsudeen Hassan, Hassan Isah (22), Abubakar Alkamu (27), Sani Sirajo (20), Mashkur Jamilu (28), Suleiman Badamasi (21), Abdulsalam Saleh, Zaharadeen Muhammad (23), Musa Adamu (30), Sumayya Mohammed (27), Isah Abdulrahman (25), and Musa Umar (31).
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Speaking while parading nine of the suspects before journalists in Abuja on Saturday, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, revealed that investigators have traced the whereabouts of some arms dealers associated with the gang.
“We are yet to arrest a suspect in that regard, but we have very credible leads we are working on. We already know the location of some of the gunrunners and suppliers, and we assure Nigerians that arrests will be made soon,” Hundeyin said.
Recovered exhibits from the suspects include a locally made AK-47 rifle, a pump-action gun, a fabricated pistol, 36 rounds of 9mm ammunition, two live cartridges, four mobile phones, two knives, a cutlass, and two flashlights.
Hundeyin confirmed that nine of the suspects are currently in custody, while three others are receiving medical treatment after sustaining gunshot wounds during their arrest. He also disclosed that one of the suspects, Shamsudeen Hassan, fired the shot that killed the security guard, Mr. Barnabas Danlami.
Addressing why the police paraded the suspects despite standard procedures discouraging such displays, Hundeyin said the move was made in response to the public’s strong interest in the case.
“This case has drawn public attention. Nigerians deserve to see that the Police Force kept its promise to arrest those responsible,” he stated.
Hundeyin assured that the suspects would face prosecution once the investigation is finalized.
“Justice must be served. Mr. Somtochukwu and Mr. Danlami will get justice this time,” he affirmed, emphasizing the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun’s commitment to ensuring justice and enhancing public safety.
The police spokesperson further urged citizens to remain security-conscious and continue assisting law enforcement agencies with useful and credible information to help combat crime nationwide.
