Police Kill Wanted Robbery and Assassination Suspect in Benue

By Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the death of one Saater, a notorious suspect from Wannune in Tarka Local Government Area, who had long been on the police wanted list for alleged involvement in the assassination of the Hunters’ Commander, Mr. Aondoakaa Yayol.

According to a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Udeme Edet, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, the suspect was gunned down during a shootout with police operatives in Makurdi.

The statement noted that Saater was responsible for the murder of the Hunters’ Commander on June 20, 2025, and was also linked to the earlier killing of the Commander’s wife, Mrs. Kashimana Yayol, on February 11, 2023, both in Wannune. He reportedly went into hiding after committing the crimes.

CP Emenari revealed that on October 18, 2025, credible intelligence indicated that the suspect had secretly returned to Makurdi to plan further attacks. Acting on this information, a team of detectives was dispatched to apprehend him around George Akume Way, Makurdi.

“Upon sighting the operatives, the suspect opened fire, prompting the police to respond. He was subdued, arrested, and taken to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) for treatment after sustaining gunshot injuries, but was later confirmed dead,” the statement said.

Items recovered from the suspect include one AK-47 rifle, a locally fabricated short gun, several 7.62mm live ammunition, cartridges, and seven SIM cards suspected to have been stolen.

The Commissioner of Police urged residents to refrain from criminal acts and to report any suspicious movements or individuals to the nearest police station or security agency.

He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of all residents in Benue State.