Security operatives in Cross River State have arrested a suspected serial killer, identified simply as Akaninyene, following the discovery of multiple shallow graves in a forest community in Odukpani Local Government Area of the state.
Arrest and Discovery
Akaninyene, said to be an indigene of Obot Akara in Akwa Ibom State, was reportedly apprehended in Creektown after intelligence linked him to the disappearance and alleged murder of a recent victim in the area. Sources said operatives of the Nigerian Army and a tactical squad, accompanied by community youths and elders, stormed an isolated hut allegedly built by the suspect inside a forest in Abanyama, Ukim Ita Community, Creektown.
It was gathered that the suspect attempted to escape after noticing the approaching security team, but was eventually overpowered and arrested by the operatives. A search of the premises reportedly led to the discovery of about eight shallow graves concealed with plantain crops, with decomposing bodies allegedly found in some of them.
Community Reaction
Residents said the discovery suggested that the killings may have gone on for a long period without detection, as several persons had previously been declared missing in the community. During preliminary interrogation, the suspect was alleged to have confessed to involvement in the killing of several persons and reportedly led security operatives to the burial sites where bodies were exhumed.
Sources further claimed that the latest incident which triggered his arrest occurred on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, after residents allegedly heard cries and sounds of struggle from a victim. The councillor representing Creektown Ward 1, Apostle Ene Itam, alongside other community leaders and youths, was said to have alerted the Chairman of Odukpani Local Government Area, Rt. Hon. Ukpong Etim Asido, over the increasing cases of missing persons in the area.
The council chairman reportedly contacted security agencies, leading to the operation that resulted in the arrest of the suspect. The development has thrown the community into shock, while youths in the area have intensified bush-combing operations in search of other possible hideouts and suspects linked to the alleged crimes.
Meanwhile, the spokesperson of the Cross River State Police Command, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, said the matter was still being verified.
