A suspected serial killer identified as Akaninyene has been arrested in Cross River State after security operatives linked him to the disappearance and murder of a recent victim.
The suspect was apprehended in Abanyama, Ukim Ita Community in Creektown, Odukpani Local Government Area, following an intelligence-led operation carried out by the Nigerian Army and a tactical special forces squad.
According to reports, operatives, accompanied by community youths and elders, tracked the suspect to a secluded hut he allegedly built inside a forest.
On sighting the security team, Akaninyene reportedly rushed into the hut in an attempt to retrieve a weapon before trying to flee into the forest. He was eventually captured by the tactical squad.
A search of the hideout led to the discovery of eight shallow graves, each said to contain multiple bodies buried without heads. Plantain crops had reportedly been planted over the graves in an apparent effort to conceal them.
Investigators believe the killings may have continued for an extended period.
During interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to killing about 30 people, many of whom had previously been declared missing within the community.
Security operatives reportedly forced him to lead them to the burial sites, where decomposing bodies were exhumed.
Akaninyene also allegedly confessed that the most recent killing, which led to his arrest, took place on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.
He claimed a female accomplice helped lure victims and assisted during the attacks.
Residents reportedly became alarmed after hearing cries and signs of struggle linked to the latest victim, prompting community leaders to report the growing number of missing persons to local authorities.
The matter was escalated to the Executive Chairman of Odukpani Local Government Area, Rt. Hon. Elder Chief Ukpong Etim Asido, after complaints from the councillor representing Creektown Ward 1, Apostle Hon. Ene Itam, alongside ward leaders, youths, and elders.
Security agencies subsequently launched the operation that led to the suspect’s arrest.
The discovery has left residents shocked, with many expressing disbelief that the alleged perpetrator had lived within the community unnoticed.
Community youths have since intensified bush-combing operations in surrounding areas to uncover any additional hideouts or evidence connected to the case.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing and that the suspect’s confessions may assist in identifying and arresting other members of the alleged criminal network.
The spokesperson of the Cross River State Police Command, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, confirmed the incident and said an official statement would be issued later.
