A police inspector, Henry Effiong, has been killed by suspected assailants while on guard duty at the residence of Imo State Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Chief Bar Rex Anunobi, in New Owerri.
The attackers reportedly took his service rifle and mobile phone after killing him on Monday, September 14, 2026, at No. 1 Sokom Villa, Area E, New Owerri.
The commissioner was alerted around 7:00 a.m. by his housekeeper, Solomon Uzobu, who found the police officer dead. Anunobi then contacted the police at about 8:00 a.m., prompting the Divisional Police Officer of New Owerri Police Division to send officers to the residence.
Effiong was found dead inside his room with his legs tied and his body facing the bathing area. A sharp object suspected to be a machete was believed to have been used in the attack.
Police investigators are also looking into the disappearance of a security guard identified as Genesis, a Taraba State indigene, who was attached to the residence. He reportedly fled after the incident, packed his belongings and switched off his phone.
Investigators suspect he may have helped the attackers gain access, but police said no conclusion has been reached on his involvement.
An empty magazine and a walkie-talkie were recovered and handed to the Area Commander, Operations. Effiong’s body was taken to the Federal Teaching Hospital for preservation and further procedures.
The Imo State Police Command is investigating the killing and working to arrest the attackers, find the fleeing guard and recover the stolen firearm. Further updates will be released as the investigation continues.
