The FCT Police Command has arrested a 33-year-old man, Obinna Nwigwe, for allegedly shooting his friend, Andrew Philemon, during a heated argument at Najob Guest House in Bwari.
The FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, confirmed the incident in a statement on Tuesday, describing it as a disturbing case of violent crime.
According to the statement, the incident occurred on 26 December 2024, when police officers responded to a distress call about gunfire. Upon arriving at the scene, they found 29-year-old Philemon critically injured from a gunshot wound. Nwigwe, armed with a pump-action rifle, claimed the shooting was in self-defence after the argument escalated.
“Police officers swiftly responded to the distress call and arrested Obinna Nwigwe at the scene. A search of his residence later revealed a shocking cache of weapons,” Adeh stated.
The search uncovered a cache of weapons, including five Dane guns, one English-made single-barrel gun, an AK-47 magazine containing 29 rounds of 7.62 live ammunition, four live cartridges, 17 spent cartridges, a bow with arrows, various knives, a sword-stick, a toy gun, a taser, a bulletproof jacket, and multiple sets of police uniforms and boots.
Adeh added that Philemon is currently receiving treatment at the National Hospital in Abuja, while Nwigwe remains in custody pending the conclusion of investigations.
The FCT Police Command reiterated its commitment to tackling violent crime and ensuring the safety of residents.
“This case highlights the need for vigilance and the dangers of illegal firearm possession. The suspect will face the full weight of the law,” SP Adeh stated.
Authorities have urged residents to report any suspicious activities to aid in the fight against crime.
The FCT Police Commissioner, Tunji Disu, also emphasised the critical role of community participation in maintaining security.
“The safety and security of our community rely on the active participation of all citizens. We urge everyone to report any suspicious activities to the police,” Disu said.
These efforts underline the ongoing dedication of the FCT Police Command to safeguarding lives, dismantling criminal networks, and ensuring public safety across the Federal Capital Territory.
(PUNCH)