Police Witness Details Sting Operation Leading to Arrests in Somtochukwu Maduagwu Murder Trial

ASP Maxwell Eje narrates the undercover operation in Kubwa that led to the capture of suspects linked to the 2025 killing of journalist Somtochukwu Maduagwu.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 23, 2026, 7:57 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Peoples Gazette

Strategic Deception in the Dei Dei Wilderness

The judicial inquiry into the death of ARISE TV journalist Somtochukwu Maduagwu reached a critical stage as the prosecution detailed the tactical maneuvers used to dismantle the responsible criminal cell. ASP Maxwell Eje informed the court that the breakthrough occurred when the second defendant, Sani Sirajo, cooperated by leading authorities to a secluded bush area in Dei Dei, Kubwa. Under the cover of darkness, police units executed a high stakes sting operation, positioning themselves to intercept unsuspecting gang members as they prepared for further criminal activity.

Disguised Officers and Recovered Weaponry

During the nighttime operation, law enforcement personnel adopted a strategic disguise to maintain the element of surprise. According to Eje, his team members carried previously recovered firearms to appear as legitimate associates of the suspects, ensuring the gang would not flee upon their arrival. This method allowed officers to get close enough to search the suspects' vehicle immediately, resulting in the recovery of an arsenal that included a long knife, a cutlass, and a dagger. The witness asserted that these weapons were primed for a robbery scheduled for that very evening.

The Chain Reaction of Criminal Apprehensions

The arrest of the initial suspects served as a catalyst for a broader sweep of the syndicate. After the third and fourth defendants, Hassan Isah and Abubakar Alkamu, were secured, the police utilized the suspects' own communication devices to lure additional accomplices to the scene. This led to the capture of the eighth defendant, Musa Umar, who is also known by the alias Small. Upon his arrival at the coordinated location, officers discovered another dagger in his possession, further cementing the link between the group and a pattern of armed violence.