Benue Police confirm death of wanted suspect Saater Aii, linked to two murders, after shootout with officers in Makurdi. Weapons and SIM cards recovered

Benue Police Confirm Death of Wanted Suspect Saater Aii, following a gun battle with police operatives in Makurdi.

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The incident, which occurred on 18 October 2025, brings an end to a months-long manhunt for Aii, who had been declared wanted for his alleged role in two high-profile assassinations in Tarka Local Government Area.

Police spokesperson DSP Udeme Edet confirmed the development in a statement released to journalists in Makurdi on Monday.

According to Edet, Aii was wanted in connection with the June 2025 killing of Mr Aondoakaa Yayol, the Tarka LG Hunters’ Commander, and the earlier February 2023 murder of Yayol’s wife, Mrs Kashimana Yayol, both of which occurred in Wannune, the Tarka LGA headquarters.

After the murders, Aii reportedly went into hiding. But recent intelligence revealed he had quietly returned to Makurdi with intentions to launch further attacks.

“On 18th October, 2025, credible intelligence revealed the suspect had returned to Makurdi. A team of detectives was deployed to George Akume Way to apprehend him,” Edet stated.

Upon spotting the police, Aii allegedly opened fire, prompting officers to respond. He was eventually subdued and arrested during the exchange but sustained gunshot injuries in the process.

He was rushed to Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), where he was later confirmed dead. His body has been deposited in the hospital mortuary.

The police recovered an AK-47 rifle, a locally fabricated short gun, several rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, and seven SIM cards believed to have been stolen.

Commissioner of Police, Mr Ifeanyi Emenari, urged residents to shun criminal activity and to report suspicious movements promptly. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all Benue residents.