Police Arrest Two Ekpo Masquerades Over Alleged Assault, Extortion in Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two men associated with Ekpo masquerade activities over allegations of assault and extortion in parts of Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area.

The suspects, identified as Ine Isong, 29, of Ukana Ikot Esoh Village, and Emmanuel Ekpenyong, 20, of Ikono Local Government Area, were arrested on October 26, 2026, at about 6 p.m. along the Ukana-Abak Highway during an operational show of force.

The command’s spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, disclosed the arrests in a statement on Wednesday, saying the suspects were allegedly found with Ekpo masquerade costumes and attire, machetes, spears and arrows.

According to the police, preliminary reports indicated that the suspects and other individuals allegedly involved in the activities had been intimidating residents and demanding money from unsuspecting members of the public.

The command also said it had received reports that some people, particularly women, were allegedly assaulted during the incidents.

Police said investigations were ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the allegations and determine the involvement of the arrested men and any other persons connected to the reported activities.

The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, reiterated that the command would not tolerate the use of cultural practices or masquerade activities as a cover for alleged criminal conduct, intimidation, extortion or violence against residents.

The command said it respected lawful cultural traditions but maintained that no individual or group should take the law into their own hands or threaten public safety.

The arrests come amid police efforts to address reports of alleged intimidation and extortion in the affected communities. The outcome of the investigation will determine the next steps in the case.