By Sophia Afolabi
A police inspector identified as Henry Effiong has been killed while on guard duty at the residence of the Imo State Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Chief Barr. Rex Anunobi, in New Owerri.
Effiong, who was attached to the Imo State Police Command, was reportedly attacked by unknown assailants who also stole his service rifle, mobile phone and other personal belongings.
According to a police situation report obtained by coastreportersnews, the incident occurred on Monday, September 14, 2026, at No. 1 Sokom Villa, Area E, New Owerri. The report stated that the commissioner was alerted at about 7 a.m. by his housekeeper, Solomon Uzobu, and subsequently contacted the police around 8 a.m.
The police report said the Divisional Police Officer of New Owerri Police Division subsequently mobilised officers to the residence, where preliminary investigations were conducted.
According to the report, Effiong was found dead inside his room with his legs tied and his body positioned towards the bathing area. A sharp object suspected to be a machete was allegedly used in the attack.
The police report also identified a security guard, Genesis, said to be a native of Taraba State, as a person of interest in the investigation after he reportedly fled the residence shortly after the incident.
Investigators, according to the report, suspect that the security guard may have facilitated the assailants’ entry into the premises. It added that he allegedly packed his belongings, switched off his phone and left the area.
The police said an empty magazine and a walkie-talkie were recovered from the scene and handed over to the Area Commander, Operations, for further investigation.
Effiong’s remains were evacuated to the Federal Teaching Hospital for preservation and further necessary procedures, while his missing service rifle and handset were listed among the items being sought.
The police said investigation was ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the killing, identify and arrest those responsible, locate the fleeing security guard and recover the missing firearm. The command said further developments would be communicated as the investigation progresses.
