The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested the leader of a masquerade group, identified as Uwem Umanah, over alleged criminal activities, including public disturbance, extortion, and illegal assembly.
A statement issued in Uyo on Saturday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, said the arrest followed a distress call from a concerned citizen, who reported that members of a masquerade group, known locally as Ekpo, were attacking residents, blocking a public highway, and extorting money from passersby.
According to the statement, police operatives swiftly responded to the call and arrested Umanah, 45, said to be the leader of the Ekpo masquerade in the village.
“The suspects were reportedly armed with spears, arrows, machetes, sticks, and other dangerous weapons, which they used to intimidate and assault members of the public, including National Youth Service Corps members,” the statement added.
Investigations revealed that Umanah had authorised members of his group to parade in masquerade costumes in public despite an existing ban on such activities in the state.
In a related operation, police also arrested one David Michael, 34, of Ikot Obong Edong village, who was found at Ukana Onuk village in full masquerade attire, allegedly preparing to invade the area.
The police said both suspects had been charged to court following the conclusion of investigations.
Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammad Azare, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to maintaining public safety, stressing that law enforcement would not tolerate any acts of lawlessness or violence under the guise of cultural practices.
He urged residents to continue to provide useful information to the police to help prevent crime and ensure the safety of all communities in the state.
