The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arraigned 11 suspects in connection with the killing of Somtochukwu Christella Maduagwu, a journalist with ARISE News, and Mr. Barnabas Danlami, a security guard, who were murdered during a robbery attack in Abuja.
The suspects were arraigned on Tuesday, 21 January 2026, before a court in the Federal Capital Territory over the incident, which occurred on 29 September 2025 at Unique Apartments, Katampe Extension, Mabushi area of the FCT.
According to the police, those standing trial include Shamsu Hassan, Sani Sirajo, Hassan Isah, Abubakar Alkamu, Abdulsalam Saleh, Suleiman Badamasi, Zaharadeen Mohammed, Musa Umar (also known as “Small”), Mashkur Jamil, Suleiman Sani, and Abubakar Usman.
They were charged on a nine-count charge bordering on criminal conspiracy, armed robbery, and murder.
The court adjourned the case to February 2026 for further hearing.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the Command reassured residents of its commitment to ensuring justice for the victims and maintaining public safety across the FCT.
The police also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious persons, movements, or items through the Command’s emergency lines: 08032003913, 08028940883, or CRU FCT: 08107314192.
The killing of the journalist and the security guard sparked public outrage and renewed calls for improved security within residential areas of the FCT.
Many had called on the police to fish out the killers and prosecute them.
