A suspected cybercrime fugitive under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has been killed following a gunfire exchange between security operatives and suspected cult members in Makurdi, the Benue State capital.
The deceased, identified as Atser Sesugh, was among three suspects earlier arrested by the EFCC on April 28, 2026, over alleged internet fraud and related offences.
According to the Benue State Police Command, the trio Sesugh, James Onuh, and Solomon Aondoakura Orhena reportedly escaped from EFCC custody on May 4 and had since been in hiding.
Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, disclosed that operatives, acting on credible intelligence, stormed a suspected hideout behind the Mechanic Village area in Kanshio at about 3:00 p.m. on Thursday after reports that the fugitives had been sighted in the area.
During the operation, the officers allegedly came under heavy gunfire from suspected cultists, leading to a fierce exchange before the attackers fled the scene.
Edet explained that while operatives were retreating, Sesugh was found critically injured by the roadside.
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He was immediately rushed to the Police Cottage Hospital in Makurdi, where he was later confirmed dead.
The remains have been deposited at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital mortuary for autopsy and preservation.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in the state has ordered a full investigation into the incident.
The Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the Criminal Investigation Department has been tasked with uncovering the circumstances surrounding the encounter.
Efforts are currently ongoing to apprehend the remaining fugitives still at large.
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