Escaped cybercrime suspect dies after gun battle with EFCC operatives 

A suspected cybercrime offender who escaped from custody has died following a gun duel between operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and suspected armed associates in Makurdi, Benue State.

The suspect, identified as Asar Michael Sesugh, was among 26 alleged internet fraud suspects arrested on April 28, 2026, during an EFCC raid carried out by the commission’s Makurdi Zonal Directorate. Following his arrest, he was remanded in custody by a Magistrate’s Court pending further investigation and profiling.

According to the EFCC, Sesugh escaped from detention on May 4, 2026, alongside two other suspects after allegedly gaining access to the facility’s toilet area and breaking through the roof to flee the premises.

The commission said intelligence later led operatives to a hideout behind the Mechanic Village area in the Kanshio axis of Makurdi, where Sesugh was reportedly taking refuge.

EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale said operatives came under fire upon attempting to re-arrest the suspect on May 21.

“Upon sighting the team, Sesugh and his suspected cult members opened fire on them,” Oyewale said. “Operatives of the commission returned fire in self-defence.”

He added that all the suspects fled during the exchange of gunfire.

After the operation, EFCC personnel reportedly discovered Sesugh lying injured by the roadside with gunshot wounds, while others fled the scene. He was immediately taken to the Police Cottage Hospital at the Benue State Police Headquarters in Makurdi, where he was pronounced dead by medical personnel.

The EFCC has dismissed claims circulating on social media suggesting that the suspect died while still in custody, insisting that the fatal injuries were sustained during an armed confrontation after his escape.

Meanwhile, the Benue State Police Command has been briefed on the incident and is conducting an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shootout.

Security agencies are also continuing efforts to locate the remaining escapees and other suspects involved in the confrontation.