The police in Akwa Ibom State have arrested two Ekpo masquerades over allegations of extorting money from passers-by and assaulting members of the public in Ikot Ekpene.
The suspects were arrested at about 6:00 p.m. on Monday, October 26, along the Ukana/Abak highway during an operational show of force, according to the police.
In a statement on Thursday, Timfom John, the police spokesperson in the state, identified the suspects as Ine Isong, 29, of Ukana Ikot Esoh Village, and Emmanuel Ekpenyong, 20, of Ikono Local Government Area.
“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,” the statement reads.
John said preliminary reports indicated that the suspects and other individuals 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,” he added.
The police spokesperson said investigations were ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify other persons who might be connected to the alleged offences.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Baba Azare, warned that the command would not tolerate the use of cultural practices or masquerade activities as a cover for criminality, intimidation, extortion or violence.
“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,” he said.
The police urged members of the public to respect the law and refrain from using cultural activities to intimidate or harm others.
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