By: Abdullahi Inuwa
The suspects were reportedly found with machetes, spears, arrows and masquerade costumes along Ukana/Abak Highway.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two suspected Ekpo masquerade participants over allegations of terrorising residents, extorting money from passers-by and assaulting members of the public in parts of Ikot Ekpene.
The suspects were arrested on October 26, 2026, at about 6:00 p.m. along the Ukana/Abak Highway during an operational show of force by police personnel.
The Command identified the suspects as Ine Isong, 29, of Ukana Ikot Esoh Village, and Emmanuel Ekpenyong, 20, from Ikono Local Government Area.
According to the police, the suspects were allegedly found in possession of Ekpo masquerade costumes and other attire, alongside machetes, spears and arrows.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the suspects and other individuals allegedly involved in the activities had been intimidating residents and demanding money from unsuspecting members of the public.
The police further alleged that some innocent persons, particularly women, had been assaulted during the incidents.
The Command said investigations were ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the alleged offences and identify other persons who might have participated in the activities.
Police Warn Against Using Culture to Commit Crimes
The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, warned that the police would not tolerate the use of cultural practices or masquerade activities as a cover for criminality, intimidation, extortion or violence.
While acknowledging the importance of lawful cultural traditions, the commissioner stressed that no individual or group would be allowed to take the law into their own hands or threaten the safety and peace of residents.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to maintaining law and order across the state, adding that efforts would continue to address activities capable of endangering lives and property.
The police also urged residents to promptly report suspicious movements and criminal activities to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to safeguard communities.
The press release was signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, LLB, ANIPR, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, on October 28, 2026.
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