By Abasi Ita
Security operatives have arrested a suspected serial killer identified as Akaninyene in Creektown, Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State, following the discovery of multiple shallow graves in a forest hideout.
The suspect, said to be an indigene of Obot Akara, was apprehended after intelligence linked him to the disappearance and alleged murder of several persons within the community.
Sources said operatives of the Nigerian Army and a tactical special forces team, working alongside community youths and elders, tracked the suspect to a secluded hut allegedly built inside a forest in Abanyama, Ukim Ita Community, Creektown.
Eyewitnesses said the suspect attempted to escape after noticing the arrival of security personnel. He reportedly rushed into the hut to retrieve a weapon before fleeing into the forest, but was eventually captured by the tactical team.
A search around the compound reportedly uncovered about eight shallow graves concealed beneath plantain crops. Community sources alleged that decomposing bodies, some without heads, were exhumed from the site.
Security sources further disclosed that the suspect allegedly confessed during interrogation to killing several persons who had previously been declared missing in the area.
According to the sources, the latest incident that triggered the operation occurred on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. The suspect was alleged to have confessed that a female accomplice helped lure victims to the location before they were killed.
The matter reportedly came to light after residents heard cries and sounds of struggle believed to have come from one of the victims.
The Councillor representing Creektown Ward 1, Apostle Hon. Ene Itam, alongside community leaders, youths and elders, alerted the Executive Chairman of Odukpani Local Government Area, Rt. Hon. Elder Chief Ukpong Etim Asido, who reportedly contacted security agencies for immediate intervention.
The Leader of the 8th Legislative Assembly in Odukpani LGA, Hon. Effiom Ekene, and Hon. Emmanuel of Adibo Efut Ward were also said to have joined efforts that led to the suspect’s arrest.
Community leaders commended security operatives and local youths for their swift response and vigilance, noting that the arrest has brought relief to residents disturbed by repeated cases of unexplained disappearances in the area.
Meanwhile, youths in the community have intensified bush combing operations to identify other possible hideouts and assist security agencies in ongoing investigations.
Authorities said investigations are continuing as efforts are underway to identify and apprehend other suspected accomplices linked to the alleged crimes.
