Cross River man confession over alleged killings shocks Odukpani community as police investigate claims of mass murders and shallow graves
A man identified as Akaninyene, reportedly in his late 30s, has allegedly made a chilling Cross River man confession admitting to the killing of about 30 people in Abanyama, Ukim Ita community, Creek Town in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State, in a case that has stunned residents and triggered a major police investigation.
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Security sources said the suspect, who allegedly lived in a secluded hut deep inside a forested area, was arrested after intelligence linked him to a recent disappearance and suspected murder in the community.
His arrest has since uncovered what authorities describe as a deeply disturbing pattern of alleged long-term killings.
According to investigators, Akaninyene allegedly confessed during interrogation that he was assisted by a woman who helped restrain victims while he carried out the killings.
He further claimed that the woman lured unsuspecting individuals to the isolated location where the attacks reportedly took place.
The suspect also allegedly led operatives to multiple burial sites hidden beneath plantain plantations.
Community sources said at least eight shallow graves were discovered, with reports suggesting some contained multiple decomposing and headless bodies, raising fears that the scale of the killings may be far greater than initially believed.
Residents said the latest incident, which reportedly involved cries and a struggle heard from the suspect’s hideout, prompted alarm that eventually led to coordinated action by local leaders and security agencies.
The situation escalated quickly as youth groups began combing surrounding bush areas for possible accomplices.
The Councillor representing Creek Town Ward 1, Ene Itam, alongside the ward chairman and community elders, had earlier reported repeated cases of missing persons to the Chairman of Odukpani Local Government Area, Ukpong Etim Asido, who subsequently alerted security operatives.
Effiom Ekene, Leader of the 8th Legislative Assembly in Odukpani LGA, and Emmanuel of Adibo Efut Ward were also involved in efforts that contributed to the suspect’s arrest, according to community accounts.
The shocking development has left residents in fear and disbelief, with many stating they had no prior suspicion that such alleged activities were taking place in the area.
Community youths have since intensified search operations across nearby forests in case of additional suspects or undiscovered burial sites.
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Spokesman of the Cross River State Police Command, Superintendent Sunday Akata, confirmed the incident, noting that investigations are ongoing as authorities work to verify the extent of the alleged crimes.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
