Benue police shootout kills notorious armed robbery suspect in Makurdi. Authorities recover weapons and urge residents to report suspicious activity immediately.
Benue police shootout suspect killed during a daring arrest operation in Makurdi, ending the violent spree of a notorious criminal known as Saater.
The suspect had long been on the state’s most wanted list for armed robbery and assassinations.
According to DSP Udeme Edet, the state police spokesperson, detectives acted on credible intelligence that Saater had returned to Makurdi to carry out fresh attacks.
Officers attempted to apprehend him along George Akume Way, where he reportedly opened fire, triggering a fierce gunfight. Saater sustained injuries during the exchange and was rushed to Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), where he was pronounced dead.

Saater’s criminal record includes the assassination of Aondoakaa Yayol, commander of the local hunters’ association in Wannune, on June 20, 2025, and the murder of Yayol’s wife, Kashimana, on February 11, 2023.
His actions had caused widespread fear, prompting intensive police surveillance and community alerts across Benue State.
“Acting on intelligence, our officers moved swiftly to apprehend the suspect, who posed a significant threat to public safety. He engaged in a shootout but was ultimately subdued,” DSP Edet confirmed.
Recovered from the scene were an AK-47 rifle, a locally made shotgun, 7.62mm ammunition, cartridges, and seven SIM cards believed to be stolen. These recoveries highlight the dangerous arsenal at the suspect’s disposal and the potential threat he posed to Makurdi residents.
Commissioner of Police CP Ifeanyi Emenari warned residents against involvement in criminal activities and urged the public to report suspicious behavior to the nearest police station.
He reassured citizens that the Benue police remain fully committed to protecting lives and property throughout the state.
The operation exemplifies the success of intelligence-driven policing in Benue State. By combining actionable intelligence with tactical intervention, law enforcement effectively neutralized a high-risk criminal and prevented potential attacks that could have endangered many lives.
Local community leaders welcomed the outcome, praising the courage and efficiency of the police force. Residents expressed relief at the arrest and ultimate neutralization of Saater, whose violent acts had instilled fear for years.
Beyond the immediate incident, the case underscores the importance of citizen cooperation with law enforcement. Timely reporting of suspicious activities can prevent crimes and enable police to respond effectively before incidents escalate.
The killing of Saater is a major victory for Benue State security. However, authorities emphasize that vigilance remains critical. Proactive patrols, enhanced intelligence operations, and public engagement are essential strategies to sustain peace and prevent future violent acts.
The Benue police shootout suspect killed in Makurdi marks a significant law enforcement achievement. This operation demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and the commitment of officers to protecting residents, recovering illegal weapons, and maintaining order across the state.
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