The Cross River State Police Command has launched a manhunt for three suspected attackers following the killing of a cocoa farm worker in Boki Local Government Area of the state.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at a cocoa farm in Isibendeghe Community, where three labourers were working when armed assailants allegedly invaded the farmland and opened fire.
Police said one of the workers, identified as Joseph Friday, died from gunshot injuries sustained during the attack, while the two other labourers managed to escape unharmed.
According to the command, the attack was reported to the Boki Police Division by the owner of the cocoa farm, who alleged that three identified suspects had carried out the assault after previously threatening and harassing her over activities at the farm.
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Detectives visited the scene shortly after receiving the report and recovered the victim’s body. Police said the deceased sustained multiple gunshot ounds to the chest and abdomen, consistent with injuries caused by a locally made firearm.
The body has since been deposited in a mortuary for an autopsy, while investigators intensify efforts to track down the fleeing suspects.
The latest incident comes weeks after another deadly attack on farmland in Cross River, where a farmer was killed and another injured, raising fresh concerns over recurring violence affecting farming communities in the state.
Police urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could lead to the arrest of those responsible. Authorities assured the public that investigations are ongoing and that further updates will be provided as the case progresses.
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