Police in Benue State have killed a wanted armed robber and assassin known as Saater during a shootout.
He was linked to multiple murders and died after exchanging gunfire with detectives in Makurdi.
Police operatives in Benue State have shot dead a notorious criminal identified as Saater, who had been on the command’s wanted list for several cases of armed robbery and assassination.
According to a statement issued on Monday, October 20, by the state police spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, the suspect was killed during a gun battle with detectives in Makurdi over the weekend. The confrontation occurred around George Akume Way when officers attempted to arrest him, but he reportedly opened fire on the police team.
Edet said Saater had been declared wanted for the murder of Aondoakaa Yayol, the commander of the local hunters’ association in Wannune, who was shot dead on June 20, 2025. He was also linked to the earlier killing of Yayol’s wife, Kashimana, on February 11, 2023.
“Following credible intelligence that the suspect had returned to Makurdi to carry out more attacks, detectives launched an operation to capture him,” the statement said. “He engaged the team in a shootout but was eventually subdued.”
The suspect sustained injuries during the exchange and was taken to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), where doctors confirmed him dead. His body has been deposited at the hospital morgue.
Police recovered an AK-47 rifle, a locally made shotgun, several rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, cartridges, and seven stolen SIM cards from the scene.
Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, commended the operatives for their swift response and warned residents against harboring criminals. He assured the public that the command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property across the state while intensifying efforts to rid Benue of criminal networks.
