NFSS Facilitates Arrest of Suspected Killers of Arise TV Newscaster , Security Guard -Metchie
By Raymond Ozoji
The Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS) has announced its role in aiding the arrest of several suspects linked to the brutal murder of Arise TV newscaster, Miss Somtochukwu Maduagwu, and the security guard on duty at the time, Mr. Barnabas Danlami.
Dr. John Metchie, Deputy Commander-General of the NFSS (Intelligence Department), praised the courage and determination of NFSS operatives, describing their involvement in the arrests as proof that the NFSS fills a critical gap in the nation’s security framework.
Speaking exclusively to this reporter, Dr. Metchie urged all levels of government to recognize and support the NFSS as a credible and complementary force in the fight against crime.
According to him, the NFSS provided vital operational support to the Nigeria Police in apprehending the armed robbery suspects responsible for the deaths of the journalist and security guard.
He revealed that a joint operation between the NFSS and the police led to the arrest of five suspects who had been terrorizing Zuba and surrounding communities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
The operation followed two back-to-back attacks by the gang on a popular hotel in the Zuba area.
Further investigations reportedly led to the arrest of additional suspects, along with the recovery of dangerous weapons from their hideout—including one AK-47 rifle, one pump-action shotgun, and a Beretta pistol.
Dr. Metchie appealed to the government to formally recognize and support the NFSS, noting that many of its operatives have served the country for years without pay or basic welfare support.
He expressed gratitude to the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for acknowledging the NFSS’s strategic contributions to national security. He also commended the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police, and other security agencies for their continued cooperation in joint operations across the country.
The Deputy Commander-General further applauded the leadership of the NFSS Commander-General, Dr. Joshua Osatimehin, for his unwavering support and exemplary leadership. He assured Nigerians that the NFSS remains fully committed to addressing the nation’s security challenges.
