On October 8, 2025, Nigeria police detained 12 individuals connected to the killing of Arise TV’s Somtochukwu Maduagwu.
The suspects admitted their roles during interrogations.
Violent Robbery Incident
On September 29, 2025, roughly 15 armed robbers attacked Unique Apartments in Abuja’s Katampe area.
The assault claimed the lives of Maduagwu and security guard Barnabas Danlami.
Identified Perpetrators
The arrested include Shamsudeen Hassan from Katsina, Hassan Isah from Kaduna, and Abubakar Alkamu from Katsina.
Others include Sani Sirajo, Mashkur Jamilu, Suleiman Badamasi, Abdul Salam Saleh, Zaharadeen Muhammad, Musa Adamu, Sumayya Mohammed, Isah Abdulrahman, and Musa Umar from northern states.
Evidence and Confessions
Hassan confessed to shooting Danlami during the break-in. Sirajo claimed he tried preventing Maduagwu’s fall.
Police seized an AK-47, 36 rounds, a pistol, a pump-action gun, two cartridges, four stolen phones, knives, a cutlass, and nine torchlights.
Foiling Another Crime
On Wednesday, police stopped the gang’s remnants planning a Maitama robbery. Ongoing investigations aim to uncover further details about their operations.
Tragic Loss Clarified
Maduagwu, known as Sommie, fell from her third-floor apartment in Gishiri while escaping. Initial reports of a shooting were corrected; she died from the fall.
Security Guard’s Death
The robbers stormed the four-storey building, targeting residents. Danlami was fatally shot during their entry, underscoring the attack’s brutality.
Police Commitment to Justice
The Nigeria police force vows thorough investigations. Confessions help reconstruct the crime. Additional arrests may follow as new leads surface.
Community Shocked
The Katampe robbery has rattled residents. Calls for tighter estate security grow. Maduagwu’s death mourns a talented journalist, leaving a void.
Rising Crime Concerns
Frequent robberies in Abuja’s affluent areas spark worry. Police urge residents to stay alert. Nigeria police arrests signal efforts to tackle violent crime.
Ongoing Case Development
Interrogations continue to reveal more. The suspects face murder and robbery charges. Ensuring justice for Maduagwu and Danlami drives the investigation.