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The Akwa Ibom State Police Command says its operatives have arrested two Ekpo masquerades in Etim Ekpo local government area of the state for their alleged involvement in the obstruction of the Etim Ekpo–Azumini Road and extortion of unsuspecting motorists and pedestrians.
The Command's Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, who disclosed this in a statement on Saturday, said aside from the obstruction of movement caused by the unlawful roadblock, the public was alarmed by the dangerous weapons used by the Ekpo masquerades.
"More concerning was the fact that the suspects were reportedly armed with machetes and other dangerous weapons, thereby creating fear, intimidation and unnecessary tension among road users," she added.
She said the suspects, identified as Godspower Ubong, male, and Blessing Jumbo, male, both of Utu Ikot Imonte Village, Etim Ekpo Local Government Area, were promptly arrested and taken into police custody.
She said the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, has stated that the Command recognises the importance of cultural heritage and traditional institutions, and that cultural expressions must be exercised within the confines of the law and with due regard for public safety, individual rights and the maintenance of public order.
The Command further warns individuals and groups who engage in unlawful roadblocks, intimidation, extortion, possession or use of dangerous weapons, and other acts capable of disrupting public peace to desist forthwith, as the Command will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute anyone found culpable.
Akwa Ibom: Police arrest two masquerades over alleged unlawful roadblock, extortion