The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the death of a suspected armed robber and assassin identified as Saater of Wannune, Tarka Local Government Area, who had been on the Command’s wanted list for alleged involvement in multiple murders.
According to a statement issued by the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, the late suspect was wanted in connection with the killing of Mr. Yayol on June 20, 2025, as well as the earlier murder of the Commander’s wife, Mrs. Kashimana Yayol, which occurred on February 11, 2023, both in Wannune. After the incidents, the suspect reportedly went into hiding.
“Acting on credible intelligence that the suspect had returned to Makurdi with plans to launch fresh attacks, detectives moved swiftly to apprehend him around George Akume Way. He engaged the police team in a shootout but was subdued and arrested,” the statement read.
The suspect reportedly sustained gunshot wounds during the encounter and was taken to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), where he was later confirmed dead.
His remains have been deposited at the hospital morgue.
Items recovered from the suspect include one AK-47 rifle, one locally fabricated short gun, several rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, cartridges, and seven SIM cards suspected to have been stolen.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, warned residents against criminal acts and report suspicious activities to the nearest police formation, assuring that the command remains resolute in safeguarding lives and property across the state.