Police Arrest Two Masquerades For ‘Terrorising Residents, Extortion’ In Akwa Ibom

Operatives of the Akwa Ibom Police Command have arrested two Ekpo masquerades, participants, for allegedly terrorising members of the public and extorting money from them.

‎This was disclosed in a release issued by the Spokesperson of the Command, DSP Timfom John, on behalf of the State Police Commissioner, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, in Uyo.

‎The release stated that the masquerades were arrested along the Abak/Ukana road axis on Monday.

‎“ The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two suspected Ekpo masquerade participants for allegedly terrorizing members of the public, extorting money from passers-by and assaulting innocent persons in parts of Ikot Ekpene.

“‎The arrests were made on 26th October, 2026, at about 1800 hours, along the Ukana/Abak Highway, during an operational show of force.

‎”The suspects were allegedly found in possession of Ekpo masquerade costumes and attire, machetes, spears, and arrows.

“‎Preliminary reports indicate that the suspects and other persons allegedly involved in the activities had been terrorising residents and extorting money from unsuspecting members of the public. Reports further indicate that some innocent persons, particularly women, were assaulted in the process”, the statement said in part.

The Command said investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the incident and identify any other persons connected to the alleged offences.

‎The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Azare, reiterated that the Command will not tolerate the use of cultural practices or masquerade activities as a cover for criminality, intimidation, extortion or violence against members of the public.

‎While respecting lawful cultural traditions, the Command said it remained resolute in ensuring that no individual or group takes the law into their own hands or threatens the peace and security of residents.

‎Members of the public were urged to promptly report suspicious activities and acts of criminality to the Police, as the Command intensifies efforts to maintain law and order across the State.” The release read.