The police in Akwa Ibom State said Thursday its operatives arrested two Ekpo masquerade participants for alleged extortion of money from passers-by and assault on members of the public in Ikot Ekpene.
This was contained in a statement issued by Timfom John, police spokesperson in the State, which further said the suspects were arrested at about 6:00pm on Monday, October 26, along the Ukana/Abak highway during an operational show of force.
John said the suspects were allegedly found with masquerade costumes and attire, machetes, spears and arrows.
Read the statement: “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”.
John said investigations were ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify other persons who might be connected to the alleged offences.
He quoted Commissioner of Police Baba Azare, in charge of the State , as warning that the police would not tolerate the use of cultural practices or masquerade activities as a cover for criminality, intimidation, extortion or violence against members of the public.
Said he: “While respecting lawful cultural traditions, the Command remains resolute in ensuring that no individual or group takes the law into their own hands or threaten the peace and security of residents”.
