An announcement by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, on Wednesday, mentioned the arrests had been made on 26 October, 2026 at about 1800 hours, alongside the Ukana/Abak Highway, throughout an operational present of drive.
The assertion learn, “The suspects, recognized as Ine Isong, aged 29, of Ukana Ikot Esoh Village, and Emmanuel Ekpenyong, aged 20, of Ikono Local Government Area, had been allegedly discovered in possession of Ekpo masquerade costumes and apparel, machetes, spears and arrows.
“Preliminary studies point out that the suspects and different individuals allegedly concerned in the actions had been terrorising residents and extorting cash from unsuspecting members of the general public. Reports additional point out that some harmless individuals, notably ladies, had been assaulted in the method.”
The assertion famous that investigations are ongoing, including that the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azar, has reiterated that the command is not going to tolerate using cultural practices or masquerade actions as a canopy for criminality, intimidation, extortion or violence towards members of the general public.
“While respecting lawful cultural traditions, the command stays resolute in making certain that no particular person or group takes the regulation into their very own palms or threatens the peace and safety of residents,” the assertion added.
