EFCC CONFIRMS DEATH OF ESCAPED CYBERCRIME SUSPECT

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By: Balogun Ibrahim

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed the death of an escaped cybercrime suspect, Asar Sesugh, following a reported gun battle involving his alleged cult associates and operatives of the commission in Makurdi, Benue State.

Sesugh was among 26 suspected internet fraudsters arrested by operatives of the EFCC’s Makurdi Zonal Directorate on April 28, 2026.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the commission’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, explained that the suspects were profiled and subsequently remanded in custody based on an order obtained from a Magistrate’s Court.

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According to the EFCC, Sesugh and two other suspects escaped from the directorate’s detention facility on May 4 after obtaining permission to use the restroom.

The commission said the trio allegedly exploited the opportunity by breaking through the roof of the facility’s toilet before fleeing custody. Efforts to track and re-arrest them initially proved unsuccessful.

Oyewale disclosed that a breakthrough was recorded on May 21 when intelligence reports indicated that Sesugh was hiding in the Kansho area of Makurdi.

He said EFCC operatives moved to the location but came under attack from Sesugh and individuals suspected to be cult members.

“Operatives of the Commission responded in self-defence. During the exchange of gunfire, the suspects fled the scene,” Oyewale stated.

He added that Sesugh was later found by the roadside with gunshot wounds and was rushed to the Police Cottage Hospital at the Benue State Police Headquarters, where he was confirmed dead.

The EFCC said the matter had been reported to the Benue State Police Command for further investigation.

The commission also dismissed claims circulating on social media that Sesugh died while in EFCC custody, stressing that he was neither detained nor on bail at the time of his death.

While extending condolences to his family, the commission reiterated its resolve to protect its personnel and prevent any attacks on its operatives or breaches of its detention facilities.

“The Commission will continue to carry out its responsibilities in the best interest of the nation,” the statement added.