Police Confirm Death of Wanted Murder Suspect in Benue

Murder Suspect in Benue

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the death of one Saater Aii from Wannune, Tarka Local Government Area, who was wanted for multiple murder cases.

In a statement issued on Monday in Makurdi, the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, said Aii had been on the wanted list for the alleged assassination of the Tarka LG Hunters’ Commander, Mr. Aondoakaa Yayol, killed on June 20, 2025, and his wife, Mrs. Kashimana Yayol, murdered earlier on February 11, 2023. Both incidents occurred in Wannune, the headquarters of Tarka LGA.

Edet explained that the suspect went into hiding after the killings but resurfaced in Makurdi with plans to launch further attacks. “On October 18, 2025, credible intelligence revealed that the suspect had secretly returned to the city. A team of detectives was immediately deployed to apprehend him around George Akume Way,” she stated.

According to the police, Aii opened fire on the operatives upon sighting them, prompting a gun duel. He was eventually subdued and arrested but sustained gunshot wounds during the exchange. He was taken to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), where he was later confirmed dead. His body has been deposited at the hospital’s mortuary.

Recovered from the suspect were one AK-47 rifle, a locally fabricated short gun, several rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, and seven SIM cards believed to have been stolen.

The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ifeanyi Emenari, urged residents to shun criminal activities and report any suspicious movements or individuals to security agencies. He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of all residents in Benue State.

NAN

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