The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the death of a wanted suspect, , from Wannune in Tarka Local Government Area, during a police operation in Makurdi.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, said Aii had been on the police wanted list for the alleged assassination of the Tarka Local Government Hunters’ Commander, Mr. Aondoakaa Yayol, on June 20, and his wife, Mrs. Kashimana Yayol, on February 11, 2023. Both killings occurred in Wannune, after which the suspect reportedly went into hiding.
According to Edet, credible intelligence indicated that Aii had secretly returned to Makurdi on October 18, 2025, with plans to launch further attacks. A team of detectives was immediately deployed to arrest him around George Akume Way.
“Upon sighting the operatives, the suspect opened fire on them. The police responded appropriately and subdued him,” Edet said. “During the exchange, he sustained gunshot injuries and was taken to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, where he was later confirmed dead.”
The police spokesperson added that officers recovered an AK-47 rifle, a locally fabricated short gun, several rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, and seven stolen SIM cards from the suspect.
The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ifeanyi Emenari, urged residents to shun criminal activities and report any suspicious movements to the nearest security agency.
Edet reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to maintaining law and order, assuring that the police would continue to pursue criminals and ensure the safety of Benue residents.
