The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two suspected Ekpo masqueraders over allegations of terrorising residents and collecting money from them by force in parts of Ikot Ekpene.
Police spokesperson Timfon John disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, saying the suspects were arrested on Monday at about 6:00 p.m. along the Ukana/Abak Highway during an operational show of force.
The suspects were identified as Ine Isong, 29, from Ukana Ikot Esoh Village, and Emmanuel Ekpenyong, 20, from Ikono Local Government Area.
According to the police, the men were allegedly carrying Ekpo masquerade costumes and clothing, machetes, spears and arrows when they were arrested.
“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,” Ms John said.
She added that reports suggested that innocent people, especially women, were assaulted during the alleged activities.
The police spokesperson said investigations were still underway to determine what happened and track down others who may have been involved in the alleged offences.
“Investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the incident and identify any other persons connected to the alleged offences,” she said.
