The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has launched a manhunt for the suspected killers of a woman identified as Unwana Okon, who was murdered in Oruk Anam Local Government Area of the state.
Okon, who lived in Ndot Village, was allegedly tricked into visiting Mbiaikot Village under the pretence of purchasing Afang leaves before she was killed.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, confirmed the incident in a statement released in Uyo on Sunday.
According to the police, the murder was reported at approximately 3:30pm on November 1, 2026, by the victim’s brother, identified as Eno.
John disclosed that Eno told the police that his sister had received a phone call from an unidentified individual asking her to come to Mbiaikot Village to sell Afang leaves.
She said, “The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has commenced an intensive investigation and launched a manhunt for the perpetrator(s) of the gruesome murder of one Unwana Okon, a female resident of Ndot Village, Oruk Anam Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
“The incident was reported on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at about 1530 hours, by one Eno, who informed the police that his sister, Unwana Okon, had received a telephone call from an unidentified individual inviting her to Mbiaikot Village under the pretext of purchasing Afang leaves.”
The police explained that Okon accepted the invitation but was subsequently found dead. Her attackers reportedly took her mobile phone and an undisclosed amount of money.
John further revealed that the Commissioner of Police in the state, Baba Azare, had ordered a thorough investigation into the killing.
She said the commissioner also directed that the case be immediately transferred from the Divisional Police Headquarters to the Command’s Violence Crime Response Unit for specialised investigation.
“The Commissioner of Police has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the unfortunate incident and directed that the case be transferred immediately from the Divisional Police Headquarters to the command’s Violence Crime Response Unit for a thorough, specialised and coordinated investigation, with a view to ensuring the swift identification, arrest and prosecution of all persons found culpable,” the statement read.
The command condemned the murder and assured residents that all available operational and investigative resources would be deployed to track down those responsible.
It also called on residents of Oruk Anam and surrounding communities to remain alert and provide useful information that could help investigators.
“The police further urge members of the public, particularly residents of Oruk Anam and neighbouring communities, to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movements, persons or information that could assist the ongoing investigation.
“Anyone with credible information is encouraged to contact the nearest Police station or the Command through its established communication channels.
“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command reassures residents of its unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property and will not relent in its determination to rid the state of criminal elements,” part of the statement read.