The Nigeria Police Force has discovered strong leads on the gun dealers who supplied weapons to the gang accused of killing Arise News anchor, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, in Abuja.
The journalist and a security guard, Barnabas Danlami, were murdered on September 29, 2025, during a robbery at Unique Apartments in Katampe Extension, Abuja.
The Federal Capital Territory Police Command had earlier arrested 12 suspects linked to the crime, who were said to have obtained their weapons from suppliers in Niger Republic.
Nine of the suspects — identified as Shamsudeen Hassan, Hassan Isah, Abubakar Alkamu, Sani Sirajo, Mashkur Jamilu, Suleiman Badamasi, Abdulsalam Saleh, Zaharadeen Muhammad, and Musa Adamu — were paraded in Abuja on Saturday.
According to police authorities, three others are currently receiving treatment for gunshot injuries sustained during their capture.During the operation, police recovered a locally made AK-47 rifle, a pump-action gun, a pistol, live ammunition, cartridges, mobile phones, knives, and flashlights.
Investigators say they have traced some of the gunrunners connected to the group and are working to apprehend them.The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said one of the suspects, Shamsudeen Hassan, was identified as the shooter who killed the security guard during the attack.
He added that the police displayed the suspects because of the strong public interest surrounding the case and to assure Nigerians that progress was being made.The police further confirmed that the suspects would face trial once investigations are complete.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed that every effort be made to ensure justice for the victims and to prevent similar crimes.The killing of Maduagwu has drawn national attention, sparking concern about the rising movement of illegal weapons across Nigeria’s borders.
The recent arrests and the ongoing investigation mark a major step forward in addressing the case and ensuring accountability for those involved.