The family of late ARISE News anchor, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, has released her funeral arrangements following her tragic death during a robbery attack in Abuja on September 29.
According to the family, the burial rites will begin on October 12 with a Night of Tributes at the THISDAY Dome, Abuja, starting at 6 p.m.
A Service of Songs will follow on October 15 at Corpus Christi Cathedral, Kaduna Street, Port Harcourt.
Her final burial is scheduled for October 18 at St. Theresa Catholic Church, Agulu, Anambra State, after a Funeral Service at 11 a.m.
Meanwhile, the police say they have made significant progress in investigating the robbery that led to her death.
The Defence Headquarters confirmed that 12 suspects have been arrested in connection with the killings of Maduagwu and a security guard, Barnabas Danlami, at Unique Apartment, Gishiri Village, Katampe District, Abuja.
According to the police report, the arrests were made following directives from the FCT Commissioner of Police to track down the criminals.
One of the arrested suspects confessed to driving away in the victims’ white Honda CR-V, while others admitted receiving ₦200,000 each from the proceeds of the crime.
Recovered items include a fabricated AK-47 rifle, 36 rounds of 9mm live ammunition, a locally made pistol, a pump-action gun, two live cartridges, four mobile phones, two sharp knives, a cutlass, and nine torchlights used during the operation.
Further arrests were made on October 8, when the remaining members of the gang were caught while attempting another robbery in Maitama, Abuja. The police confirmed that all suspects had confessed to their roles in the attack, while efforts are ongoing to track down others still at large.
Maduagwu’s sudden death has continued to draw tributes from colleagues, viewers, and the public, who described her as a talented journalist with a bright future in broadcasting.
Her funeral events are expected to draw prominent figures, media personalities, family, and friends from across the country in honour of her remarkable career.