The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested and prosecuted the leader of a masquerade group and one accomplice for allegedly blocking a public highway, assaulting citizens, and extorting money under the guise of cultural display, in clear violation of the state government’s directive restricting such activities.

The arrest, according to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, followed a distress call from a concerned citizen reporting that the group, armed with machetes, spears, and sticks, had attacked passersby, including National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, while demanding tolls along a village road.

Investigations revealed that the leader of the group, identified as Uwem Umanah, 45, had authorised members of the “Ekpo” masquerade society to parade publicly despite an existing state government ban on unregulated masquerade outings.

Another suspect, David Michael, 34, was arrested at Ukana Onuk Village while allegedly preparing to invade the area in a full masquerade costume.

Both suspects, police confirmed, have been charged in court after a thorough investigation.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, reaffirmed the Command’s zero tolerance for lawlessness and warned that no cultural practice or tradition would be allowed to endanger public safety or infringe on citizens’ rights.

He assured residents that the police would continue to enforce the state’s directive on masquerade activities, which restricts such displays to approved festivals under strict supervision to prevent violence and criminality.

“The Command will not tolerate any act of intimidation or extortion under the guise of cultural expression,” Azare stated, urging community leaders to cooperate with security agencies to sustain peace and order across the state.

The Akwa Ibom State Government had earlier cautioned that masquerade displays outside approved traditional settings would be treated as public disturbances, emphasising that culture must not be used as a cover for criminal acts.

The police, therefore, urged residents to remain law-abiding and to promptly report suspicious activities, assuring that the Command remains steadfast in ensuring that all communities remain safe for lawful and peaceful coexistence. (Tribune)