The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested three masquerades for allegedly inflicting life-threatening injuries on several persons during a cultural celebration in the state.

The suspects, whose identities were withheld, were paraded on Monday at the Command’s headquarters in Uyo by the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammad Azare.

CP Azare said the arrests were made in Eket Local Government Area during the Ekid Day celebration held on Saturday.

He disclosed that victims injured by the masquerades are currently receiving medical treatment at undisclosed hospitals across the state.

According to the police commissioner, the actions of the suspects violated a recent executive order issued by Governor Umo Eno, which prohibits masquerades from operating on public streets without prior approval and police supervision.

“The Command is fully complying with the Executive Order of the Akwa Ibom State Government restricting masquerade activities to approved locations with mandatory police permission and security coverage,” CP Azare said. “This measure has significantly reduced violence and disorder.”

While giving an overview of the Command’s performance in 2025, the police boss revealed that officers recovered 179 assorted arms and 323 rounds of ammunition within the year.

He added that 563 suspects were arrested for various offences and subsequently charged to court, while 14 stolen vehicles were recovered and returned to their rightful owners.

CP Azare further disclosed that 74 victims of human trafficking were rescued and reunited with their families, while 10 kidnapped victims were successfully freed.

According to him, the Command also secured 33 convictions in 2025, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of residents across Akwa Ibom State. (The Nation, excluding headline)

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