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.
Police arrest two masquerades over alleged assault, extortion in Akwa Ibom