Thursday, October 29, 2026 - Two Ekpo masquerades are cooling their heels in the custody of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command over their alleged involvement in assault and extortion in parts of Ikot Ekpene council of the state.
A statement by the command's spokesperson, DSP Timfon John,
on Wednesday, said the arrests were made on 26 October, 2026 at about 1800
hours, along the Ukana/Abak Highway, during an operational show of force.
The statement read, "The suspects, identified as Ine
Isong, aged 29, of Ukana Ikot Esoh Village, and Emmanuel Ekpenyong, aged 20, of
Ikono Local Government Area, 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 noted that investigations are ongoing, adding
that the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azar, has 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 remains resolute in ensuring that no individual or group takes the law
into their own hands or threatens the peace and security of residents,"
the statement added.
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