Police arrest two masquerades for alleged beach of public peace in Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two masquerades and their leader for alleged beach of public peace in Etinam Local Government Area of the state.

The spokesperson of the command, DSP Timfon John, who disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, January 26, 2026 said the suspects are currently assisting the police with ongoing investigations.

“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command, under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammad Azare, fsi, in its sustained efforts to maintain peace and public order across the State, has arrested three individuals for their alleged involvement in violent and disorderly conduct carried out under the guise of masquerade activities in Etinan Local Government Area,” the statement read. 

“On Friday, January 23, 2026, at about 1645 hours, the Command received a distress call from an anonymous source reporting a serious breach of public peace and violent activities by masquerades at Mbioto II Village, Etinan LGA.

“Upon receipt of the information, Police operatives were promptly mobilised to the scene and arrested two suspected masquerades and their leader.

“The suspects are: Kenneth Bassey (M), 31 years, Ofonime Isaac (M), 25 years, and Paul Samuel Bassey (M), 21 years. 

“The suspects have been detained and are currently assisting the Police with ongoing investigations.

“Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammad Azare, fsi, while commending the swift response of the Police operatives  reiterates the Command’s unwavering commitment to maintaining public order and safety in all communities across Akwa Ibom State.

“He stated that while the Command respects the State’s rich cultural heritage and traditional practices, any activity that degenerates into violence, intimidation, or constitutes a threat to public peace will be met with the full force of the law.”