Security operatives in Cross River State have arrested a suspected serial killer who has allegedly confessed to murdering about 30 people, in what is shaping up to be one of the most chilling criminal cases in the state’s recent history.

The suspect, identified simply as Akaninyene and said to be in his late 30s, was arrested in Abanyama, Ukim Ita community, Creek Town, following intelligence linking him to the disappearance and murder of a recent victim in the area.

The suspect, who reportedly lived alone in a secluded hut inside a forest, allegedly led investigators in his confessional statement to reveal that a woman assisted him in carrying out the killings by holding down victims while he slit their throats.The disturbing nature of the alleged method of killing has sent shockwaves through the local community.

The latest killing, which ultimately led to his arrest, allegedly took place on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. A search conducted around the suspect’s hideout reportedly uncovered several shallow graves concealed beneath plantain trees with community sources revealing that about eight graves were discovered, some containing multiple headless bodies, suggesting the killings may have continued for months without detection.

During interrogation, the suspect allegedly led operatives to some of the burial sites where decomposing bodies were exhumed.The grim discoveries have deepened the sense of horror among residents who may have lived in proximity to the suspect without any knowledge of the alleged crimes being committed nearby.

The Leader of the 8th Legislative Assembly in Odukpani Local Government Area, Effiom Ekene, was among those said to have joined efforts that contributed to the suspect’s arrest.

Community youths have since intensified bush-combing operations in surrounding areas in search of possible accomplices and other suspected hideouts linked to the crimes.

The spokesman of the Cross River State Police Command, Superintendent Sunday Akata, confirmed the incident. Authorities are expected to provide further details as investigations continue and efforts to establish the full scale of the alleged crimes progress.