Security operatives in Cross River State have arrested a man identified as Akaninyene, who is suspected of being involved in multiple killings and disappearances reported in Creektown, Odukpani Local Government Area.
The arrest followed an intelligence-led operation carried out by a combined team of security forces, including personnel of the Nigerian Army and other tactical units, who reportedly tracked the suspect to a remote forest hideout in Abanyama, Ukim Ita community.
According to preliminary reports, the operation was launched after weeks of concern over missing persons in the area. Residents had reportedly raised alarms following repeated incidents of suspected abductions and unusual activities around the forest region.
Security operatives were said to have located a secluded hut deep inside the forest, where the suspect was allegedly hiding. During the raid, Akaninyene reportedly attempted to escape and tried to retrieve a weapon before he was quickly subdued and arrested by the operatives.
During a subsequent search of the hideout, operatives reportedly uncovered multiple shallow graves within the vicinity. Local sources claim that as many as eight graves were discovered, with bodies allegedly buried in a concealed manner.
It was further alleged that vegetation, including plantain crops, had been planted over the burial sites in an attempt to disguise them. However, these claims are still awaiting official forensic confirmation.
Reports also indicate that the suspect allegedly confessed during interrogation to killing about 30 individuals in different parts of the community. He was also said to have claimed that a female accomplice assisted in luring victims before they were attacked.
Security authorities have not yet verified the alleged confession, and investigations are ongoing to determine the authenticity of the claims and the extent of the crimes.
The latest incident is said to have been triggered by a suspected killing on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, after residents reportedly heard distress cries and signs of struggle in the area. Community leaders and youths subsequently alerted security agencies, leading to the operation.
The spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, confirmed that the matter is currently under verification, stressing that a full investigation is ongoing.
