A suspected serial killer identified as Akaninyene has been arrested in Cross River State following intelligence linking him to the disappearance and murder of a recent victim. Security operatives, acting on a tip-off, tracked him to an isolated hut he built inside a forest in Abanyama, Ukim Ita Community, Creektown of Odukpani Local Government Area.
Arrest and Discovery
According to CrossRiverWatch, upon arrival, men of the Nigerian Army and a tactical special forces squad, led by community youths and elders, attempted to secure the area. When Akaninyene noticed the invasion, he ran into the hut to retrieve a weapon but was quickly surrounded. He tried to escape into the forest but was apprehended by the tactical team.
A search of his hideout revealed multiple shallow graves, numbering eight, each containing the remains of about five victims buried without their heads. Plantain crops had been planted over the graves to conceal them. The discovery suggests the killings may have been ongoing for some time.
Confession and Modus Operandi
During interrogation, Akaninyene allegedly confessed to killing about 30 people in the community who had gone missing without trace. He was forced to lead operatives to the graves, where bodies without heads were exhumed. He confessed that the last killing, which triggered his arrest, occurred on Tuesday, 26th May 2026. He claimed he carried it out with the help of a lady who allegedly held the victim's head. According to him, the lady lures victims to their deaths, describing their method of operation.
Community Response
The alarm bells were first rung after community members heard a struggle and cries from the last victim. The Councilor representing Creektown Ward 1, Apostle Hon. Ene Itam, alongside the Ward Chairman, youths, and elders, reported the case of missing persons to the Executive Chairman of Odukpani LGA, Rt. Hon. Elder Chief Ukpong Etim Asido. Security operatives were alerted and began operations.
Residents say the discovery shocked the entire community as families realized the perpetrator lived among them. The Leader of the 8th Legislative Assembly in Odukpani LGA, Hon. Effiom Ekene, and Hon. Emmanuel of Adibo Efut Ward also joined efforts to ensure Akaninyene was captured.
Ongoing Investigations
Following the arrest, community youths have intensified bush-combing operations to uncover other possible hideouts linked to similar crimes. Security agencies say Akaninyene's confessions are expected to help in tracking and arresting others involved in the same criminal network. Residents of Cross River State are urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to authorities immediately.
Meanwhile, the spokesperson for the Cross River State Command, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, confirmed the incident, adding that a statement will be issued later.
