A man identified as Akaninyene, in his late 30s, has confessed to the brutal murder of approximately 30 people in Abanyama, Ukim Ita community, Creek Town, within Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State. The suspect, who lived alone in a secluded hut deep inside a forest, was arrested after intelligence linked him to the disappearance and killing of a recent victim. His arrest followed a series of mysterious disappearances that had alarmed residents for months, culminating in a violent incident on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, which prompted a swift response from security forces and community leaders.
According to security sources, Akaninyene admitted during interrogation that he carried out the killings with the help of a woman accomplice. She reportedly assisted by holding down victims while he slit their throats. He also claimed she lured unsuspecting individuals to the isolated location where the murders occurred. The suspect’s confession came after community members reported hearing cries and sounds of struggle emanating from his hideout during the last attack, which led to increased vigilance and eventual intervention.
A search operation around the suspect’s hut uncovered several shallow graves hidden beneath plantain crops. Community sources confirmed that about eight graves were discovered, some containing multiple headless bodies, indicating the killings may have spanned months without detection. During interrogation, Akaninyene led security operatives to some of the burial sites, where decomposing remains were exhumed. This grim discovery has deepened the shock and fear among residents, many of whom had no idea the suspect was responsible for the disappearances.
The alarm was raised by Councillor Ene Itam, representing Creek Town Ward 1, along with the ward chairman, community elders, and youth leaders. They reported the recurring cases of missing persons to the Chairman of Odukpani LGA, Ukpong Etim Asido, who immediately alerted security agencies. The Leader of the 8th Legislative Assembly in Odukpani LGA, Effiom Ekene, and Emmanuel of Adibo Efut Ward, also played key roles in coordinating the efforts that led to the suspect’s capture.
In the aftermath, community youths have intensified bush-combing operations in surrounding areas to locate possible accomplices and other hidden sites linked to the crimes. The Cross River State Police Command confirmed the incident through its Spokesman, Superintendent Sunday Akata, who did not provide further details but acknowledged the arrest and ongoing investigations. The case has sent shockwaves across the region, raising concerns about security and the need for enhanced community surveillance. Authorities are now working to ensure justice is served and to prevent any recurrence of such heinous acts.
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