The police command in Akwa Ibom says it has commenced an investigation into the suspected murder of a 45-year-old man found in a pool of blood while sleeping with his family inside a church.

Police spokesperson Timfon John in Akwa Ibom disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday.

The statement said that a preliminary investigation revealed the incident occurred on Tuesday at approximately 12:10 a.m. in the Ukanafun LGA.

“The victim, his wife, and children were sleeping at a church in Ikot Oku Usung village when a gunshot was heard in the church. It was later discovered that Mr Udeme Uko had been shot in the head, suggesting either a suicide or an attack from enemies.

“The command was alerted to the incident by concerned citizens who received the report from the victim’s wife, and on receipt of the information, a team of police officers was immediately dispatched to the scene of the crime.

“During the visit, a locally made pistol was recovered as an exhibit. The corpse of the deceased has since been deposited at the mortuary for preservation and autopsy,” said the police.

Meanwhile, police commissioner Baba Azare has directed a thorough and swift investigation to be conducted in order to apprehend those responsible for the heinous act.

(NAN)