Police Arrest Suspected Serial Killer Linked to Multiple Murders
The Cross River State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a 40-year-old man, Akaninyine Eretus, suspected of being behind a string of brutal killings that have left residents of Odukpani Local Government Area living in fear.
Global Mirror News gathered that the suspect was apprehended by a joint security team after an intensive manhunt led operatives to a secluded hut he allegedly constructed deep inside a forest in Abanyama, Ukim Ita Community, Creek Town.
According to Police sources, Eretus is currently in custody and assisting investigators. During interrogation, he reportedly confessed to participating in several violent crimes and claimed that he and members of his gang were responsible for about 30 killings within the community over the years.
Confirming the development on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer in Cross River State, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, said investigations into the disturbing murders remain ongoing.
In a statement released by the command, Akata disclosed that the suspect allegedly admitted involvement in the killings of two individuals identified simply as Okokon and Okon, whose full identities are yet to be officially established. The victims were reportedly murdered on May 24 and May 25, 2026.
Police said the suspect claimed one of the victims was killed while asleep, while the other was attacked with a machete.
During questioning, Eretus allegedly told investigators that his actions were driven by a long-standing desire for revenge. He reportedly linked the motive to the deaths of his parents and two elder brothers during a communal conflict that occurred nearly three decades ago in the Area.
The command further revealed that two bodies believed to be those of the victims have been recovered and deposited in a hospital morgue pending identification and autopsy.
However, Police cautioned the public against drawing conclusions, stressing that the suspect’s statements remain allegations until fully investigated and verified.
“The Cross River State Police Command wishes to inform the public that investigations into the alleged murder incidents at Creek Town, Odukpani Local Government Area, are ongoing,” the statement noted.
The command also urged residents to avoid spreading rumours, unverified reports, or inflammatory messages capable of disrupting ongoing investigations or creating tension within affected communities.
Authorities assured residents that updates would be provided as investigations progress and reiterated their commitment to ensuring justice is served.
The arrest has sparked widespread reactions across Cross River State, with many residents calling for a thorough investigation into the suspect’s claims, particularly his alleged confession linking himself and his gang to dozens of killings in the area.
