Suspected attackers killed police inspector Henry Effiong at the home of Imo State Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Chief Bar Rex Anunobi, in New Owerri.
The attackers also took the inspector’s service rifle and mobile phone after killing him while he was on guard duty at the commissioner’s house.
The incident happened on Monday, September 14, 2026, at No. 1 Sokom Villa, Area E, New Owerri.
According to the report, the commissioner’s housekeeper, Solomon Uzobu, found the police officer dead and alerted him around 7:00 a.m.
Anunobi reportedly called the police around 8:00 a.m., and the Divisional Police Officer for New Owerri sent officers to the house.
The inspector was found dead in his room, with his legs tied and his body facing the bathing area.
A sharp object, possibly a machete, was believed to have been used in the attack.
Police are now concerned about the whereabouts of a security guard named Genesis, from Taraba State, who worked at the residence.
Investigators suspect the security guard may have helped the attackers enter the premises, according to the situation report.
The guard reportedly left the house after the incident, took his belongings, and turned off his mobile phone.
Police said his disappearance has raised suspicion about his possible role in the killing, but the investigation is still ongoing and no conclusions have been made about his involvement.
Police found an empty magazine and a walkie-talkie at the scene and handed them to the Area Commander for further investigation.
The attackers also reportedly took the service rifle that belonged to the inspector who was killed.
His body was later taken to the Federal Teaching Hospital for preservation and other necessary procedures.
The Imo State Police Command has started investigating the circumstances of the killing. They are working to identify and arrest those responsible, find the missing security guard, and recover the stolen firearm.
The Command said they will share more updates as the investigation continues.