The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two Ekpo masquerades over allegations of assault and extortion in parts of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area.
The suspects were arrested on October 26, 2026, at about 6 p.m. along the Ukana/Abak Highway during a police operation.
The police spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, identified the suspects as Ine Isong, 29, from Ukana Ikot Esoh Village, and Emmanuel Ekpenyong, 20, from Ikono Local Government Area.
According to the police, the suspects were allegedly found with Ekpo masquerade costumes, machetes, spears and arrows.
The command said preliminary investigations indicated that the suspects and other individuals allegedly involved had been terrorising residents and extorting money from unsuspecting members of the public.
The police added that some innocent people, particularly women, were allegedly assaulted during the incidents.
Inside Akwaibom state:
Man Accused of Terrorising Family, Community with Illegal Firearm in Akwaibom
Two Rescued As Speedboat Sinks On Akwa Ibom Waterways
Police Nab Serial Burglar, Recover N21m Studio Equipment in Akwa Ibom
The command said investigations were ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the allegations and identify other persons who might have been involved.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azar, warned that masquerade activities and cultural practices must not be used as a cover for criminal activities, intimidation, extortion or violence.
The police stressed that while lawful cultural traditions would be respected, no individual or group would be allowed to take the law into their own hands or threaten the safety of residents.
About the Author
