The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two masquerades and their leader over an alleged breach of public peace in Etinan Local Government Area.
DSP Timfon John, the command’s spokesperson, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, January 26, 2026, saying the suspects are currently assisting the police with ongoing investigations.
The statement said the arrests were made following a distress call received on Friday, January 23, 2026, at about 4:45 p.m., reporting 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 statement added.
The suspects have been identified as:
- Kenneth Bassey (31 years)
- Ofonime Isaac (25 years)
- Paul Samuel Bassey (21 years)
They have been detained and are currently aiding the police with the investigation.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammad Azare, fsi, commended the swift response of the operatives and reiterated the command’s commitment to maintaining public order across the state.
He emphasised that while the police respect the state’s cultural heritage and traditional practices, any activity that leads to violence or threatens public peace will be met with the full force of the law.