A man identified simply as Akaninyene has allegedly confessed to the killing of about 30 persons in Abanyama, Ukim Ita community in Creek Town, Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The suspect, said to be in his late 30s, was reportedly arrested after security operatives linked him to the disappearance and murder of a recent victim in the community.
According to security sources, Akaninyene allegedly admitted during interrogation that a woman assisted him in carrying out the killings by restraining victims while he attacked them.
Investigators disclosed that the suspect had been living alone in a secluded hut located deep inside a forest in the area.
Sources further revealed that the latest alleged killing, which eventually exposed his activities, occurred on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.
Following his arrest, operatives reportedly conducted a search around the suspect’s hideout and uncovered several shallow graves concealed beneath plantain plantations.
Community sources said no fewer than eight graves were discovered, with some reportedly containing multiple decomposing bodies, raising fears that the killings may have continued unnoticed for several months.
During questioning, the suspect was also said to have led investigators to some of the burial sites where bodies were exhumed.
He allegedly confessed that the woman worked with him by luring unsuspecting victims to the isolated location before they were attacked.
Residents reportedly became suspicious after hearing distress cries and sounds of struggle believed to have emanated from the suspect’s hideout during the latest incident.
The matter was subsequently reported to authorities by the councillor representing Creek Town Ward 1, Ene Itam, alongside the ward chairman, youth leaders and community elders, who alerted the Chairman of Odukpani Local Government Area, Ukpong Etim Asido.
The council chairman thereafter contacted security agencies, leading to the suspect’s arrest.
The incident has thrown the community into shock, with many residents expressing disbelief over the suspect’s alleged involvement in the series of mysterious disappearances recorded in the area.
Sources also disclosed that the Leader of the 8th Legislative Assembly in Odukpani LGA, Effiom Ekene, and Emmanuel of Adibo Efut Ward participated in efforts that led to the arrest.
Meanwhile, community youths have intensified search operations in nearby forests over fears that other accomplices or hideouts may still exist.
The spokesperson for the Cross River State Police Command, Superintendent Sunday Akata, confirmed the incident.