Outrage in Cross River as man confesses to killing 30 persons

IDONGESIT INYANG, CALABAR

A suspected serial killer identified as Akaninyene, has been caught in Creektown, Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State following intelligence reports that linked him to the disappearance and murder of a recent victim.

Security operatives, elders, community youths and vigilante groups acting on a tip off, tracked him to an isolated hut he built inside a forest in Abanyama, Ukim Ita Community, Creektown.

Our reporter, gathered that Akaninyene, on noticing the invasion, ran into the hut to get his weapon, but was quickly surrounded and in attempt to escape into the forest 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 with plantain crops planted over the graves to conceal them and suggesting that the killings may have been ongoing for some time.

During interrogation, Akaninyene allegedly confessed to killing about 30 people in the community who had gone missing without trace and having been forced to lead operatives to the graves, bodies without heads were exhumed.

He confessed that the last killing, which led to his arrest, occurred on Tuesday, 26th May 2026 claiming he carried it out with the help of a lady who allegedly held the victim’s head even as the lady lures victims to deaths, describing that as their method of operation.

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 who alerted security operatives to begin the operation.

Residents say the discovery shocked the entire community as families realized that a killer, lived among them.

Following the apprehension, 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 while residents of Cross River State are urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to authorities immediately.

Meanwhile, the Cross River State Command of the Nigeria Police Force, through its spokesman, ASP Sunday Eitokpah when contacted for confirmation, said the incident is being verified.