The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested three young men for allegedly unleashing violence and causing widespread panic during a masquerade procession in Mbioto II Village, Etinan Local Government Area of the state.
The suspects — Kenneth Bassey, 31; Ofonime Isaac, 25; and Paul Samuel Bassey, 21 — were apprehended on Friday at about 4:45pm following a distress call by residents over what the police described as “serious breach of public peace and disorderly conduct” carried out under the guise of cultural festivities.
In a statement issued in Uyo on Saturday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, said operatives were swiftly deployed to the community after the report, leading to the arrest of two suspected masquerades and their alleged leader at the scene.
“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command, under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammad Azare, 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.
John said preliminary findings revealed that the masquerades allegedly harassed residents, obstructed movement, and disrupted commercial activities, triggering fear and tension within the community before security operatives intervened.
“The suspects have been detained and are currently assisting the police with ongoing investigations,” she added, noting that further arrests could follow as inquiries continue.
Reacting to the development, CP Azare commended the оперативes for their prompt response, describing it as part of the command’s broader strategy to clamp down on acts capable of undermining peace and security in rural communities.
While reaffirming respect for Akwa Ibom’s cultural heritage and traditional festivals, the police boss warned that any custom or celebration that degenerates into violence, intimidation, or threats to public safety would not be tolerated.
“Our culture must not be used as a shield for criminality. The command will continue to work with community leaders and stakeholders to ensure that traditional practices are conducted within the bounds of the law,” Azare said.
Residents of Mbioto II Village, who spoke , said masquerade-related disturbances had in the past led to injuries and property damage in parts of Etinan, urging authorities to intensify monitoring of cultural events to prevent future breakdowns of law and order.
The suspects are expected to be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations
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