The Nigeria Police Force say it has uncovered credible leads on the gun suppliers who armed the gang accused of killing Arise News anchor, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, in Abuja.
The late journalist and a security guard, Barnabas Danlami, were brutally murdered during a robbery on 29 September 2025 at Unique Apartments, Katampe Extension. Following intense investigations, the FCT Police Command arrested 12 suspects linked to the attack.
Police investigations revealed that the gang sourced their weapons from a supplier in Niger Republic, raising concerns about the growing cross-border arms trade fuelling violent crimes in Nigeria.
Among those arrested are 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).
Parading nine of the suspects in Abuja on Saturday, Force spokesperson CSP Benjamin Hundeyin said investigators had pinpointed the locations of several gunrunners linked to the gang and that arrests would soon follow.
“We already know the locations of some of the suppliers. Very credible leads are being pursued, and Nigerians will soon see results,” Hundeyin stated.
Recovered from the suspects were a locally made AK-47 rifle, pump-action rifle, pistol, 36 rounds of 9mm ammunition, two live cartridges, four phones, knives, a cutlass, and flashlights.
Hundeyin disclosed that nine suspects are currently in custody, while three are being treated for gunshot injuries sustained during their arrest.
“Our investigation revealed that Shamsudeen Hassan fired the shot that killed Mr. Barnabas Danlami,” Hundeyin added.
Despite the Force’s usual policy against public parades, the suspects were presented “due to the huge public interest” surrounding the case.
“This is a case Nigerians deeply care about. We promised to find the killers, and we have kept that promise,” the spokesperson said.
Hundeyin assured that the suspects would face full prosecution once investigations are complete.
“Justice must be served. Mrs. Somtochukwu and Mr. Danlami will get justice,” he affirmed.
He also reiterated the commitment of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to ensuring national security and urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and support ongoing police efforts with timely, credible information.
