EFCC Fugitive Makurdi Gun Duel leaves a suspect dead after a clash between security operatives and alleged cult members in Benue State

A suspected cybercrime fugitive linked to an investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has died following a reported gun duel involving security operatives and alleged cult members in Makurdi, Benue State.

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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 Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, the suspects, including James Onuh and Solomon Aondoakura Orhena, allegedly escaped from EFCC custody on May 4 before going into hiding.

Acting on intelligence, operatives reportedly stormed a hideout behind the Mechanic Village area in Kanshio at about 3 p.m. on Thursday after receiving information that the fugitives had been sighted.

Edet stated that the operatives came under attack from suspected cult members who opened fire, triggering a gun exchange before the assailants fled the scene.

During a withdrawal from the area, Sesugh was found critically injured by the roadside and rushed to the Police Cottage Hospital in Makurdi, where he was confirmed dead.

His body has since been deposited at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital mortuary for autopsy and preservation.

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The police further confirmed that the Commissioner of Police has ordered a full investigation into the incident, while efforts continue to track down the remaining suspects.