Police Arrest Masqueraders for Extorting People in A'Ibom

Akwa Ibom State Police have arrested two people who participated in the Ekpo masquerade. They are accused of extorting money and attacking residents in the Ikot Ekpene Area of the state.

The police spokesperson, Timfom John, shared this news in a statement on Thursday.

According to John, the suspects were caught around 6 pm on Monday, October 26, along the Ukana/Abak highway during a police operation. The suspects are Ine Isong, 29, from Ukana Ikot Esoh Village, and Emmanuel Ekpenyong, 20, from Ikono Local Government Area.

The statement said the police found them with Ekpo masquerade costumes, machetes, spears, and arrows.

"Preliminary reports show that the suspects and others involved have been terrorizing residents and extorting money from unsuspecting people."

"Reports also say some innocent people, especially women, were attacked in the process. Investigations are ongoing to find out more about the incident and to identify other people who might be involved," the statement said.

The police commissioner, Baba Azare, warned against using cultural practices or masquerade events to intimidate or extort people.

"While we respect lawful cultural traditions, the command will not allow anyone or group to take the law into their own hands or disturb the peace and security of residents," the statement concluded.