Original RecapCrime

Trial of suspects in journalist Somtochukwu Maduagwu's death resumes in Abuja

New evidence reveals details of the robbery that led to the journalist's tragic death.

NigerianNewsFeed NewsDesk
By NigerianNewsFeed NewsDesk Admin
@nigerianewsfeed · · 4 min read
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Trial of suspects in journalist Somtochukwu Maduagwu's death resumes in Abuja
Photo: Legit

The trial of eleven suspects linked to the death of ARISE News anchor Somtochukwu Maduagwu resumed on September 29 at the FCT High Court, revealing shocking details about the circumstances surrounding her demise during a robbery. A police officer testified that Maduagwu was allegedly pushed from her third-floor apartment at Unique Apartments in Katampe, Abuja, during the violent incident.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Douglas Ishaku, who is part of the Scorpion Squad, provided critical insights during the court proceedings. He stated that investigations confirmed the involvement of eight out of the eleven defendants in the robbery that occurred on September 29, 2025. Ishaku also mentioned that the suspects had confessed to their roles in the crime.

The court heard that Shamsu Hassan, the first defendant, is believed to have shot the security guard, Barnabas Danlami, during the robbery. Furthermore, it was revealed that Hassan allegedly possessed a fabricated AK-47 rifle, which was reportedly used in the attack. Another defendant, Sani Surajo, was said to own a foreign-made pump-action rifle. Police recovered these weapons, along with daggers and machetes, during the suspects' arrests.

The prosecution plans to present a video recording of the defendants as they made their confessions, which could further substantiate the case against them. Justice Mohammed Idris presided over the hearing and has scheduled the next court session for October 7, where the trial will continue.

Somtochukwu Maduagwu, a well-respected journalist, was tragically killed during the robbery, which has drawn significant public attention and raised concerns about security in the area. The ongoing trial aims to bring justice for Maduagwu and her family, as the defendants face serious charges related to her death. As the case unfolds, the court will determine the final verdict for the accused individuals, who currently remain presumed innocent until proven guilty.

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