Police arrest suspected serial killer in Cross River

The Cross River State Police Command has arrested a suspected serial killer, Akaniyene Eretus, following the discovery of multiple shallow graves containing human remains in a forest community of Odukpani Local Government Area of the state.
The command’s spokesperson, SP Sunday Akata, confirmed the arrest, saying the suspect was apprehended at a secluded hideout in Creek Town Forest after security operatives acted on intelligence linking him to the disappearance and murder of a recent victim.

Eretus, said to be an indigene of Obot Akara, was tracked to an isolated hut he allegedly built within the Abanyama area of Ukim Ita Community, Creek Town.

A joint operation involving troops of the Nigerian Army, tactical police operatives, community youths and local leaders led to the arrest. The suspect reportedly attempted to flee after noticing the approaching security team but was overpowered before he could escape into the forest.

A search of the compound led to the discovery of about eight shallow graves. Investigators said several of the graves contained multiple bodies, many of them buried without their heads.

Security operatives also observed that plantain crops had been planted over the burial sites, apparently to conceal the graves and avoid suspicion.

During preliminary interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to involvement in numerous killings and subsequently led investigators to the burial sites where decomposing remains were exhumed.

The Police Command said a female suspect, identified as 35-year-old Uduak Essien, was also arrested in connection with the case.

Akata stated that both suspects remain in police custody while investigations continue to determine the full extent of the alleged crimes and identify possible additional victims or accomplices.

He assured residents that the command would carry out a thorough investigation and ensure that all those found culpable are brought to justice.