The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has launched a manhunt for the suspected killers of a woman, identified as Unwana Okon, who was allegedly lured to a village in Oruk Anam Local Government Area of the state and murdered.
The victim, a resident of Ndot Village, was reportedly invited to Mbiaikot Village by an unidentified person under the pretence of purchasing afang leaves, popularly known as African wild spinach.
The incident was reported to the police at about 3.30pm on Sunday, November 1, 2026, by the victim’s brother, identified as Eno.
According to the police, Eno informed officers that his sister had received a telephone call from an unidentified individual inviting her to Mbiaikot Village to sell afang leaves.
Unaware of the danger surrounding the invitation, Okon reportedly honoured the request and travelled to the village.
However, she was later found dead under circumstances that suggested she had been attacked by unknown individuals.
The assailants reportedly made away with her mobile phone and an undisclosed amount of money.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, confirmed the incident in a statement issued in Uyo on Sunday.
John said the command had commenced an intensive investigation and launched a manhunt for those responsible for the killing.
She disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, had ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident to ensure that the perpetrators were identified, arrested and prosecuted.
According to the police spokesperson, the commissioner also directed the immediate transfer of the case from the Divisional Police Headquarters to the command’s Violence Crime Response Unit for a specialised and coordinated investigation.
The unit is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the murder and establish the identities of those involved.
The police command condemned the killing, describing the incident as unfortunate, and assured residents that all available operational and investigative resources would be deployed to apprehend the suspects.
The command also called on residents of Oruk Anam and neighbouring communities to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements, individuals or activities that could assist the ongoing investigation.
John urged anyone with credible information about the incident to report to the nearest police station or contact the command through its established communication channels.
She said public cooperation remained important in helping security agencies identify criminal elements and prevent further attacks.
Meanwhile, the incident has raised concerns about the safety of traders and residents who travel between communities for business transactions.
The circumstances surrounding the telephone invitation that led Okon to Mbiaikot Village are expected to form part of the police investigation.
Investigators are also expected to establish whether the killing was motivated by robbery or other criminal activities.
The police have not announced any arrests in connection with the incident.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property across Akwa Ibom State, assuring residents that efforts were underway to bring those responsible to justice.
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