The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has provided its account of how a 16-year-old suspect, Sesugh Michael Atsar, escaped from detention and was later killed during an encounter with its operatives in Benue State.
The commission’s explanation comes in response to allegations made by the deceased’s mother, Jennifer Atsar, who claimed that her son had been granted bail before he was allegedly killed by EFCC operatives who demanded a bribe. However, the anti-graft agency has strongly denied the allegations, insisting that the teenager was neither granted bail nor killed while in custody.
In a statement titled “Setting the Records Straight on Citizen Asar Michael Sesugh’s Death,” EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale said the teenager was among 26 suspected internet fraud suspects arrested by operatives of the Makurdi Zonal Directorate on April 28, 2026.
According to the commission, the suspects were profiled and detained after a Magistrate Court issued a remand order to facilitate further investigations.
The EFCC explained that on May 4, 2026, three of the suspects requested permission to use the restroom within the detention facility. The agency said the suspects took advantage of the opportunity, damaged the roof of the toilet, and escaped from custody.
The commission stated that despite several efforts to track down and re-arrest the escapees, they initially evaded capture.
The agency further disclosed that fresh intelligence received on May 21, 2026, indicated that Atsar was hiding in the Kanshio area of Makurdi. Acting on the information, EFCC operatives moved to the location to apprehend him.
According to the commission, upon sighting the operatives, Atsar and individuals described as suspected cult members allegedly opened fire on the EFCC team. The operatives reportedly returned fire in self-defence, leading to a gun battle.
The EFCC said the suspects fled the scene during the exchange of gunfire. However, Atsar was later discovered by the roadside with gunshot wounds and lying in a pool of blood.
The commission stated that he was immediately rushed to the Police Cottage Hospital located at the Benue State Police Headquarters in Makurdi, where medical personnel confirmed his death.
Following the incident, the EFCC said the matter was formally reported to the Benue State Police Command, which has commenced an investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the teenager’s death.
The commission noted that efforts are ongoing to arrest other members of the group who allegedly escaped during the confrontation, adding that preliminary findings from the police investigation have already been made public.
Reaffirming its position, the EFCC stressed that Atsar did not die while in detention and was never released on bail at any point before his death.
While extending condolences to the family of the deceased, the anti-graft agency maintained that it would not tolerate attacks on its operatives or security breaches within its facilities. The commission also reiterated its commitment to carrying out its duties in line with its mandate and in the interest of national security.
