Security operatives in Cross River State have reportedly apprehended a suspected serial killer, Akaninyine Eretus, who allegedly confessed to the murder of dozens of individuals in the Odukpani Local Government Area. The suspect, also identified as Akaninyene, was tracked and arrested following a series of intelligence reports concerning the disappearance and gruesome killings of numerous residents who had vanished without a trace over an extended period.

The apprehension was a result of a coordinated operation involving operatives from the Nigerian Army and tactical special forces, who, accompanied by community youths and elders, tracked Akaninyine to a secluded hut hidden deep within a forest in Abanyama, Ukim Ita Community. Upon noticing the invasion, the suspect reportedly attempted to retrieve a weapon from the hut before trying to flee into the dense forest. However, he was swiftly overpowered and taken into custody by the tactical squad.

A subsequent search of Akaninyine's hideout revealed chilling evidence: eight shallow graves. Each grave was purportedly found to contain the decomposing remains of approximately five victims, all of whom were buried without their heads. Investigators suspect that plantain crops had been deliberately planted on top of these graves in an attempt to conceal the heinous killings from discovery.

During interrogation, Akaninyine Eretus allegedly confessed to the murder of about 30 individuals within the community, many of whom had previously been reported missing by their distraught families. He was compelled to lead operatives to the burial sites, where multiple headless bodies were exhumed, confirming his horrifying claims. The suspect further reportedly admitted that the most recent killing, which ultimately led to the exposure of his criminal activities, occurred on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

Akaninyine also claimed that he carried out these murders with the assistance of a woman, who allegedly helped restrain the victims by holding their heads while he committed the attacks. He further alleged that this woman typically lured unsuspecting victims to isolated locations where the murders took place. This accomplice is likely the second suspect, Uduak Essien, 35, who was later identified and arrested by the police in connection with these crimes.

Suspicion regarding Akaninyine's activities intensified after local residents heard loud cries and sounds of struggle emanating from the victim believed to have been killed on the night of Tuesday, May 26, 2026. This crucial information was promptly reported by the Councillor representing Creektown Ward 1, Ene Itam, along with the ward chairman, community youths, and elders, to the Executive Chairman of Odukpani LGA, Elder Chief Ukpong Etim Asido. The leaders of the 8th Legislative Assembly in Odukpani LGA, Hon. Effiom Ekene, and Hon. Emmanuel of Adibo Efut Ward, also joined efforts to ensure the suspect's capture.

The Cross River State Police Command later confirmed the arrest of two suspects, Akaninyine Eretus, 40, and Uduak Essien, 35, over the alleged murder and mutilation of two men in Ibonda, Creek Town area. The incident officially came to light on May 28, 2026, when one Mmawan Okon reported his father, Mr. Okon Ikon, missing at the Creek Town Police Post. Traditional inquiries by family members allegedly indicated Mr. Okon Ikon had been killed and buried nearby. A combined search team apprehended Akaninyine hiding in the bush, who then led them to the severed head of Mr. Okon Ikon. Further search efforts revealed the remains of another victim, Mr. Okonkon, buried in a separate location within the same bush.

Both suspects are currently in the custody of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) as investigations continue. The revelation of these serial killings has plunged the community into a state of deep mourning and panic, with many families anxiously attempting to identify relatives who have disappeared in recent months. The Cross River State Command of the Nigeria Police Force, through its spokesman ASP Sunday Eitokpah, stated that the incident is being thoroughly verified as the investigation progresses.