A man identified as Akaninyene has been arrested in
Cross River State following allegations linking him to a series of killings and
disappearances in Odukpani Local Government Area.
According to reports, security operatives acting on
intelligence tracked the suspect to a secluded hut he allegedly built deep
inside a forest in Abanyama, Ukim Ita Community, Creektown. The operation
involved personnel of the Nigerian Army, a tactical special forces team, and
local community members.
Authorities said that upon noticing the arrival of
security personnel, the suspect reportedly rushed into the hut, allegedly
attempting to retrieve a weapon. However, he was quickly surrounded and
arrested while trying to flee into the forest.
A subsequent search of the hideout led to the
discovery of several shallow graves concealed beneath plantain plantations.
Investigators reportedly uncovered human remains in the graves, many of which
were found without heads.
During preliminary interrogation, Akaninyene allegedly
confessed to involvement in multiple killings and directed security operatives
to the burial sites. Authorities are currently working to verify the claims and
establish the identities of the victims.
The arrest followed the disappearance and alleged
murder of a recent victim, an incident that reportedly heightened suspicions
within the community. Residents had earlier raised concerns about a growing
number of unexplained disappearances in the area.
Community leaders, including local councillors, youth
groups, and traditional elders, had reported the cases to the Odukpani Local
Government authorities, prompting a coordinated security response.
The discovery has sent shockwaves through the
community, with many residents expressing disbelief that the suspect had
allegedly been living among them while the crimes were being committed.
Following the arrest, security agencies have
intensified investigations and bush-combing operations in surrounding areas to
determine whether additional suspects or hideouts are connected to the case.
The spokesperson of the Cross River State Police
Command, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, confirmed the incident and stated that an
official statement would be released after further investigations.
Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant
and continue providing useful information that could assist ongoing efforts to
dismantle any criminal network connected to the alleged crimes.
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