The Benue State command of the Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the death of a wanted man, Saater Aii, who was accused of assassinating the Tarka Local Government Hunters’ Commander, Mr. Aondoakaa Yayol, and his wife, Mrs. Kashimana Yayol, in separate attacks.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, announced the development in a statement made available to journalists on Monday, October 20, in Makurdi, the state capital.
Edet said the suspect, who had been on the run for over a year, was killed in a gun duel with police operatives after he opened fire during an attempt to arrest him.
According to the statement, Aii had gone into hiding after the killings in Wannune, headquarters of Tarka Local Government Area, but resurfaced recently to plan fresh attacks.
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“On October 18, 2025, credible intelligence revealed that the suspect had clandestinely returned to Makurdi with plans to carry out further attacks,” Edet said.
She explained that detectives were immediately deployed to track him down around George Akume Way, Makurdi.
“Upon sighting the operatives, the suspect opened fire on them. The police responded appropriately and succeeded in subduing and arresting him,” she added.
The police spokesperson said Aii sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange and was taken to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) for treatment but was later confirmed dead.
“His corpse has since been deposited at the hospital mortuary,” Edet stated.
Naija News reports that items recovered from the suspect include one AK-47 rifle, one locally fabricated short gun, several 7.62mm live ammunition, and seven SIM cards suspected to have been stolen.
Edet added that the recovered weapons and evidence were being processed for further investigation.
The State Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, commended the operatives for their swift response and urged residents to avoid involvement in criminal activities.
He also called on members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to the nearest police station or other security agencies.
Edet reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in the state.
“The Command remains resolute in ensuring the safety and security of all residents of Benue State,” she said.
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