The trial of 11 defendants charged with the alleged murder of Arise News anchor, Somtochukwu “Sommie” Maduagwu, resumed on Tuesday at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) sitting in Jabi, Abuja, with fresh revelations on how the suspects were apprehended.
At the hearing, a prosecution witness—an officer attached to the homicide unit—gave a detailed account of the investigative process that led to the arrest of the accused persons. According to the witness, the police launched an intensive manhunt shortly after the incident was reported, deploying both intelligence gathering and digital tracking tools to identify those allegedly involved.
The court heard that investigators traced communication records and movements linked to the prime suspects, which eventually led operatives to multiple locations within and outside the FCT. Acting on credible intelligence, coordinated raids were carried out, resulting in the arrest of the defendants at different hideouts.
The witness further testified that items believed to be connected to the crime were recovered during the operations, and that statements were obtained from the suspects under caution. These, he said, formed part of the evidence the prosecution intends to rely on to establish its case.
During cross-examination, defence counsel challenged aspects of the investigation, particularly the procedures followed in obtaining statements and the identification of the accused persons. However, the prosecution maintained that due process was strictly observed throughout the investigation.
The presiding judge adjourned the matter to a later date for continuation of trial, including further cross-examination of the witness and the possible presentation of additional evidence.
The case has drawn significant public attention, especially within Nigeria’s media community, following the tragic killing of Maduagwu, a rising broadcast journalist whose death sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice.
Proceedings are expected to continue in the coming weeks as the court hears more testimonies in the high-profile case.
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