An escaped cybercrime suspect, identified as Asar Sesugh, has died following a gun battle involving operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and suspected cult members in Makurdi, Benue State.
The EFCC disclosed the development in a statement issued on Saturday by its Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale.
According to the commission, Sesugh was among 26 suspected internet fraudsters arrested by operatives of the Makurdi Zonal Directorate on April 28, 2026. The suspects were subsequently profiled and remanded in custody after the EFCC secured a court order from a Magistrate’s Court.
The commission stated that Sesugh and two other suspects escaped from its holding facility on May 4 after obtaining permission to use the restroom.
Oyewale explained that the trio allegedly exploited the opportunity by breaking through the roof of the toilet and fleeing detention.
He said several attempts by operatives to track and apprehend the escapees were unsuccessful until fresh intelligence received on May 21 indicated that Sesugh was hiding within the Kansho area of Makurdi.
Acting on the intelligence, EFCC operatives reportedly moved to the location but came under attack from Sesugh and his suspected cult associates.
“Operatives of the Commission returned fire in self-defence. All the suspected cult members, including Sesugh, fled owing to the exchange of fire between them and EFCC operatives,” Oyewale stated.
He added that Sesugh was later found lying injured by the roadside and was immediately taken to the Police Cottage Hospital at the Police Headquarters in Makurdi, where medical personnel confirmed him dead.
The EFCC said the incident had been reported to the Benue State Police Command for further investigation.
The commission also dismissed claims circulating on social media that the suspect died while in its custody.
“The Commission wishes to state clearly that the deceased suspect did not die in custody and was not on bail at any time,” Oyewale said.
While extending condolences to the family of the deceased, the anti-graft agency maintained that it would not tolerate attacks on its personnel or breaches of its security procedures by suspects.
The commission reaffirmed its commitment to carrying out its duties in line with its mandate and in the interest of the nation.