From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
A suspected serial killer identified as Akaninyene, an indigene of Obot Akara, has been arrested in a forest hideout in Creektown following intelligence linking him to a series of disappearances and murders in the area.
Security operatives, acting on a tip-off, stormed an isolated hut located within a forest in Abanyama, Ukim Ita Community, Creektown.
The operation involved men of the Nigerian Army, a tactical special forces team, and local youths and community leaders who assisted in securing the area.
On sighting the operatives, the suspect reportedly attempted to flee after rushing into his hut to retrieve a weapon, but was quickly surrounded and arrested while trying to escape into the forest.
A search of the compound led to a shocking discovery of multiple shallow graves.
Authorities reportedly uncovered about eight graves, with remains believed to belong to several victims buried without their heads.
Plantain crops were allegedly planted over the graves in an attempt to conceal the site.
The discovery has raised fears that the killings may have been ongoing for a long period.
During interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to killing about 30 people in the community who had previously gone missing.
He reportedly led security operatives to the graves, where bodies were exhumed.
He also confessed that the most recent killing, which triggered his arrest, occurred on Tuesday, 26 May 2026.
He further alleged that he carried out the act with the assistance of a woman who helped lure victims, though investigations are still ongoing to verify this claim.
The alarm was raised after residents reportedly heard cries and a struggle during the last incident.
Community leaders, including the councillor representing Creektown Ward 1, Apostle Hon. Ene Itam, alongside the ward chairman, youths, and elders, reported the missing persons case to the Executive Chairman of Odukpani LGA, Rt. Hon. Elder Chief Ukpong Etim Asido.
He promptly alerted security agencies, leading to a swift response by military and police tactical teams.
The Leader of the 8th Legislative Assembly in Odukpani Local Government Area, Hon. Effiom Ekene, and Hon. Emmanuel of Adibo Efut Ward also joined in the coordination efforts.
Community leaders commended the rapid response of security operatives and praised youths for their vigilance.
Following the arrest, local youths have continued bush-combing operations to identify possible additional hideouts linked to the suspect or any accomplices.
Security agencies say the suspect’s confession may assist ongoing investigations to uncover other members of a possible criminal network.
Residents of Cross River State have been urged to remain calm but vigilant, and to report any suspicious activities to authorities.
The Police Public Relations Officer of Cross River State Command, ASP Sunday Eteikpe, confirmed the incident.
