The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two suspects, identified as Ine Isong, 29, and Emmanuel Ekpenyong, 20, for allegedly terrorizing residents and extorting money in parts of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area. The suspects were arrested on October 26, 2026, at about 6pm along the Ukana/Abak Highway during a show of force by the police. They were found with Ekpo masquerade costumes, machetes, spears, and arrows.
According to the police, preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects and other alleged accomplices had been committing acts of assault and extortion against unsuspecting members of the public. The alleged activities led to assaults on some innocent people, particularly women. The police command said investigators were working to establish the full circumstances of the incidents and identify other suspects.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azar, has warned against using cultural practices or masquerade activities to commit crimes, intimidate residents, extort money, or engage in violence. Azar stressed that the command respects lawful cultural traditions but would not allow individuals or groups to take the law into their own hands or threaten public peace and security.
The suspects, who are from Ukana Ikot Esoh Village and Ikono Local Government Area, are currently facing police investigation. The police command's spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, disclosed that the arrest was a result of a show of force by the police along the Ukana/Abak Highway. The command is working to ensure that those responsible for the alleged crimes are brought to justice.
The Ekpo masquerade is a traditional cultural practice in some parts of Akwa Ibom State, but the police have emphasized that this does not justify the use of masquerade activities to commit crimes. The command is urging residents to report any suspicious activities or incidents to the police to ensure public safety and security.
The arrest of the two suspects has been welcomed by residents, who have expressed relief that the police are taking steps to address the issue of assault and extortion in the area. The police command has assured residents that it will continue to work to prevent and investigate crimes, and to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
The police are also working to identify and apprehend other suspects who may be involved in the alleged crimes. The command is urging anyone with information about the incidents or the suspects to come forward and assist the police in their investigation.
Key points
- The Akwa Ibom State Police Command arrested two Ekpo masquerades for alleged assault and extortion in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area.
- The suspects were found with Ekpo masquerade costumes, machetes, spears, and arrows during a show of force by the police.
- The Commissioner of Police has warned against using cultural practices or masquerade activities to commit crimes, intimidate residents, or extort money.
