Escaped cybercrime suspect dies in gun battle with EFCC operatives

An escaped cybercrime suspect, Asar Sesugh, died in Makurdi, Benue State, after engaging in a gun battle with operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Sesugh was among 26 suspected cyber fraudsters arrested by the EFCC's Makurdi Zonal Directorate on April 28, 2026.

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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’s operatives.

Following a court order, the suspects were remanded in custody. However, on May 4, 2026, Sesugh and two other detainees requested permission to use the lavatory and escaped by breaking through the toilet's roof. Despite repeated efforts, the EFCC could not re-arrest them.

A breakthrough came on May 21, 2026, when intelligence led EFCC operatives to Sesugh's location in Kansho, Makurdi. Upon arrival, Sesugh and his suspected cult associates opened fire on the operatives. The EFCC returned fire in self-defense, causing Sesugh and his associates to flee. Sesugh was later found lying in a pool of blood by the roadside and was taken to the Police Cottage Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

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However, Sesugh was later sighted lying in the pool of his blood by the roadside. He was promptly taken to the Police Cottage Hospital at the Police Headquarters in Makurdi, where he was pronounced dead.

The EFCC stated that Sesugh did not die in custody and was not on bail. The commission expressed condolences to the family but warned against further attacks on its operatives or breaches of security. The incident has been reported to the Benue State Police Command for investigation.

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The Commission wishes to state clearly that the dead suspect did not die in custody and was not on bail at any time.