A cocoa farmer, Joseph Francis Friday, has been shot dead in Isibendeghe Community, Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State.

Friday reportedly sustained multiple gunshot wounds to the chest and abdomen after he was allegedly shot at close range.

The Cross River State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, said in a statement that the incident occurred on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.

According to the police, the suspected attackers were Patrick Out Debang, James Osa G, and another person popularly known as “Pepsi”, all from Boje Community in Boki LGA.

The police said one Madam Etta Maria Ado of Onisha Farm in Isibendeghe Community lodged a complaint at the Boki Police Station, alleging that the suspects attacked her cocoa farm, where three workers were engaged.

Ado further alleged that the suspects had persistently harassed and threatened her over activities at the farm before the incident.

She also told the police that two other workers, Clinton Abang and Amobi Igwe, escaped from the scene and later returned to inform her of the attack.

According to the police spokesperson, the complainant alleged that the suspects opened fire on Friday and the other workers at the farm.

“Upon receipt of the report, detectives from the Boki Division visited the scene. The corpse of the deceased was recovered with multiple pellet wounds consistent with injuries inflicted by a locally made firearm, with penetrations to the chest and abdomen.

“The body has been deposited at the mortuary for autopsy, while investigation is ongoing with a view to apprehending the fleeing suspects.” (Daily Trust)