Man confesses woman helped him kill 30 people in Cross River
A man in his late 30s, identified only as Akaninyene, has reportedly confessed to the murder of approximately 30 individuals in the Abanyama area of the Ukim Ita community in Creek Town, located within the Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State.
Akaninyene was apprehended following intelligence linking him to the recent disappearance of a victim from the community. Investigators suggest that the suspect had been living alone in a secluded hut deep within the forest.
According to security sources, Akaninyene claimed in his confessional statement that a female accomplice assisted him in carrying out the murders by restraining the victims while he inflicted fatal wounds. He stated that the latest homicide, which ultimately led to his arrest, occurred on May 26, 2026.
A thorough search of the area surrounding the suspect’s hideout revealed multiple shallow graves concealed beneath plantain crops. Community sources reported the discovery of approximately eight graves, some of which contained multiple headless bodies, indicating that the killings may have persisted undetected for months.
During questioning, Akaninyene allegedly guided law enforcement officials to some of the burial sites, where decomposing remains were exhumed. He also asserted that his accomplice lured unsuspecting victims to the remote location prior to their deaths.
Concerns in the community escalated when residents reported hearing cries and sounds of struggle emanating from Akaninyene’s hideout during his most recent attack. Following these alarming incidents, the Councillor for Creek Town Ward 1, Ene Itam, along with community leaders and youth, reported the ongoing cases of missing persons to Ukpong Etim Asido, the Chairman of Odukpani Local Government Area, who subsequently notified security agencies.
The shocking development has left residents stunned, with many expressing disbelief that Akaninyene was allegedly responsible for the mysterious disappearances. Community leaders, including Effiom Ekene, the Leader of the 8th Legislative Assembly in Odukpani LGA, alongside Emmanuel of Adibo Efut Ward, were instrumental in facilitating the suspect’s arrest.
In response to the situation, community youth have intensified search efforts in the surrounding areas for any additional accomplices or potential hideouts linked to the crimes.
Superintendent Sunday Akata, spokesperson for the Cross River State Police Command, confirmed the incidents and the ongoing investigation.
