Police nab masquerades for extorting residents in A’Ibom
Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two Ekpo masquerade participants over allegations of extortion and assault against members of the public in Ikot Ekpene Area of the state. This was disclosed in a statement made available by the state police spokesperson, Timfom John, on Thursday. John said operatives arrested the suspects at about 6 Read More:…
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has apprehended two individuals implicated in extortion and assault crimes targeting residents in the Ikot Ekpene area of the state. This development was disclosed by the state police spokesperson, Timfom John, in a statement released on Thursday. According to John, the suspects, Ine Isong, a 29-year-old from Ukana Ikot Esoh Village, and Emmanuel Ekpenyong, 20, from Ikono Local Government Area, were apprehended on Monday, October 26, around 6 pm, near the Ukana/Abak highway during a demonstration of force.
The suspects were found in possession of Ekpo masquerade costumes and attire, along with machetes, spears, and arrows. Preliminary reports suggest that the suspects, along with other individuals, had been harassing residents and demanding money from unsuspecting members of the public. Some victims, particularly women, suffered assaults during these incidents.
Ongoing investigations aim to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the events and identify any additional individuals connected to these alleged offenses. State Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, cautioned against using cultural practices or masquerade activities as a guise for intimidation, extortion, violence, or other criminal acts.
He reiterated the command's determination to maintain peace and security while respecting lawful cultural traditions.
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