The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the death of one Saater (male) of Wannune, Tarka Local Government Area, who had long been on the Command’s wanted list for alleged involvement in multiple murders, including the assassination of the Hunters’ Commander, Mr. Aondoakaa Yayol.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, the suspect was also linked to the earlier killing of Mr. Yayol’s wife, Mrs. Kashimana Yayol, on 11th February 2023, both incidents having occurred in Wannune.
The police said the suspect, who had gone into hiding after the crimes, was tracked down on 18th October 2025 following credible intelligence that he had secretly returned to Makurdi to plan fresh attacks. Detectives deployed to the area attempted to arrest him around George Akume Way, but he reportedly opened fire on the operatives.
“The police responded appropriately and succeeded in subduing and arresting him,” the statement said. “During the encounter, the suspect sustained gunshot injuries and was immediately taken to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) for treatment, where he was later confirmed dead.”
Recovered from the suspect were 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 advised residents to shun criminal activities and report suspicious persons or movements to the nearest police station or security agency, assuring that the Command remains steadfast in its efforts to protect lives and property across Benue State.
