Benue Police Gun Down Most-Wanted K!ller Linked To Hunter Leader’s Murder

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the death of a notorious wanted suspect, identified as Saater Aii, who was accused of orchestrating the murder of the Tarka Local Government Hunters’ Commander, Mr. Aondoakaa Yayol, and his wife, Mrs. Kashimana Yayol, in separate deadly attacks.

According to Ireporter Online, the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, made the disclosure in a statement released on Monday, October 20, in Makurdi, the state capital. Edet revealed that the suspect, who had been on the police wanted list for over a year, was neutralized during a gun duel with security operatives after he reportedly opened fire to resist arrest.

Investigations indicated that Aii had been hiding since the brutal killings in Wannune, headquarters of Tarka Local Government Area, but recently resurfaced to allegedly plan new attacks in the state. Acting on credible intelligence, police detectives were deployed to intercept him along George Akume Way, Makurdi.

“Upon sighting the operatives, the suspect immediately opened fire. The police responded swiftly and subdued him,” Edet stated. She added that the suspect sustained serious injuries during the exchange and was rushed to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), where he was later confirmed dead. His remains have been deposited at the hospital’s morgue.

Authorities reportedly recovered several incriminating items from the suspect, including an AK-47 rifle, a locally fabricated short gun, multiple rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, and seven SIM cards suspected to be stolen. The recovered exhibits, according to the police, are currently undergoing forensic analysis as part of ongoing investigations.

The Benue State Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, commended the operatives for their prompt and courageous response, emphasizing the Command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property. He also urged residents to remain law-abiding, report suspicious movements, and avoid shielding criminals in their communities.

Edet reaffirmed that the Command remains fully dedicated to ensuring lasting peace and security across Benue State.