The Cross River State Police Command has launched a manhunt for an unidentified male guest who fled a Calabar South hotel shortly before his female companion was found dead in their room.

The deceased woman, whose identity remains unknown, was discovered lifeless at a hospitality facility located along Clifford Lane. Authorities are currently treating the incident as a suspected homicide.

Providing an update on Wednesday regarding the case—which was initially reported on September 8, 2026—police revealed that preliminary investigations confirmed the duo checked into the hotel together. The male suspect disappeared before the discovery of the body, and detectives are actively working to track his whereabouts to reconstruct the timeline leading up to the tragedy.

In a bid to identify the victim and establish contact with her relatives, the command has officially released her photograph to the public. The police have appealed to anyone who recognizes the woman, or who possesses information regarding her identity or the location of the fleeing male guest, to come forward immediately.

Meanwhile, the hotel receptionist who was on duty during the check-in remains in police custody. Officials confirmed he is assisting investigators by providing details regarding the guests` admission and the events preceding the discovery.

The Command clarified that the receptionist`s detention is a routine investigative procedure and does not imply guilt, noting that subsequent actions will strictly adhere to legal frameworks as evidence emerges.

The Cross River State Commissioner of Police, CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, has ordered a thorough, professional, and objective investigation into the incident to ensure justice is served.