Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have arrested two members of an Ekpo masquerade group for alleged extortion, harassment, and physical assault of residents in the Ikot Ekpene area of the state.

The suspects, identified as 29-year-old Ine Isong of Ukana Ikot Esoh Village and 20-year-old Emmanuel Ekpenyong of Ikono Local Government Area, were apprehended along the Ukana/Abak highway during a routine operational show of force.

In a statement released on Thursday, Akwa Ibom State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfom John, revealed that the suspects were taken into custody while wearing Ekpo masquerade costumes and carrying dangerous weapons, including machetes, spears, and arrows.

According to preliminary police investigations, the duo, along with accomplice members who remain at large, had been terrorizing local communities, forcefully extorting money from motorists and pedestrians.

Several individuals, particularly women, were reportedly assaulted during these operations.

“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,” John stated.

“Reports further indicate that some innocent persons, particularly women, were assaulted in the process.

“Reacting to the arrests, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, issued a stern warning against using traditional customs or masquerade heritage as a front for criminal activities, intimidation, or violence.

“While respecting lawful cultural traditions, the command remains resolute in ensuring that no individual or group takes the law into their own hands or threatens the peace and security of residents,” CP Azare warned.

Police confirmed that investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate connected to the crime.