The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two men allegedly disguising themselves as Ekpo masquerades to extort motorists and pedestrians along the Etim Ekpo-Azumini Road.
The suspects, identified as Godspower Ubong and Blessing Jumbo, both residents of Utu Ikot Imonte Village in Etim Ekpo Local Government Area, were arrested on November 14, 2026, at about 2 p.m.
According to the police, officers on routine patrol intercepted the two masquerades while they were allegedly blocking a section of the road, disrupting vehicular and pedestrian movement.
Preliminary investigations reportedly revealed that the suspects mounted an illegal roadblock, accosted road users and demanded money from them under the guise of cultural masquerade activities.
The police further disclosed that the suspects were allegedly armed with machetes and other dangerous weapons, which they used to intimidate members of the public.
A search conducted on them led to the recovery of two knives suspected to have been used in carrying out the alleged activities.
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The Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, Baba Mohammed Azare, condemned the alleged conduct, stressing that no individual or group was above the law.
While acknowledging the importance of cultural heritage and traditional institutions, the police commissioner maintained that cultural activities must be conducted within the confines of the law and must not infringe on the rights and safety of others.
He warned individuals and groups against unlawful roadblocks, intimidation, extortion and the possession or use of dangerous weapons, assuring residents that anyone found culpable would be arrested and prosecuted.
The command also directed officers across the state to sustain intelligence-led patrols and surveillance to prevent activities capable of threatening public peace.
Residents were urged to report suspicious activities, extortion attempts and unlawful roadblocks to the nearest police formation.
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