The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested and detained three individuals for their alleged involvement in violent and disorderly conduct carried out under the guise of masquerade activities in Etinan Local Government Area of the state.
According to a statement issued on Saturday in Uyo by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the suspects were arrested on Friday, January 23, 2026, at about 4:45pm following a distress call from an anonymous source.
DSP John explained that the report indicated a serious breach of public peace and violent actions by masquerades at Mbioto II Village, Etinan LGA. Acting swiftly on the information, police operatives were immediately mobilised to the area to restore order and ensure the safety of residents.
Upon arrival at the scene, the operatives arrested two suspected masquerades along with their alleged leader. The suspects were identified as Kenneth Bassey, 31; Ofonime Isaac, 25; and Paul Samuel Bassey, 21, all males.
The police spokesperson stated that the suspects have been taken into custody and are currently assisting investigators with useful information to aid ongoing investigations into the incident.
“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command, under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammad Azare, remains committed to maintaining peace and public order across the state,” the statement read. “While the command respects the rich cultural heritage and traditional practices of the people, any activity that degenerates into violence, intimidation, or threatens public peace will not be tolerated.”
Meanwhile, CP Baba Mohammad Azare commended the swift response of the police operatives and reassured residents of the command’s resolve to protect lives and property in all communities across Akwa Ibom State.
He further urged community members to continue to cooperate with security agencies by promptly reporting suious activities, stressing that cultural practices must be conducted within the bounds of the law.
Do you think the punishment for violent masquerade activities is too harsh or justified? Lets discuss!
Why are masquerade activities still a thing in this day and age? Time to leave outdated traditions behind.
Do you think masquerade activities should be regulated more strictly to prevent violence, or is it part of tradition? Lets discuss!
I think the police should focus on more serious crimes than arresting people for masquerade activities. Waste of resources!
I wonder if the masquerade activities were cultural or criminal. Its a strange mix of tradition and law enforcement!
I wonder how many more hidden masquerade groups are out there causing trouble. Scary stuff!
Do you think traditional masquerade activities should be regulated more strictly to prevent violence? Lets discuss!
This article is biased against masquerades! They are cultural icons, not criminals. Lets be fair in our reporting.
These masquerades are getting out of hand! Should they be banned or regulated? Lets discuss! 🤔🎭 #AkwaIbomMasquerades #OpinionsWelcome
I cant believe they arrested the masquerade performers! Shouldnt they focus on real crimes instead? Seems like a waste of resources.
Isnt it crazy how these masquerade activities can escalate into violence? Whats your take on the situation?
Is it really necessary to crack down on traditional masquerade activities in Akwa Ibom? Lets discuss!
I wonder if the masquerades were just having fun or causing real harm. What do you think? 🤔
I cant believe they arrested those masquerade performers! Shouldnt they be focusing on real criminals instead?
I wonder if these masquerades were just misunderstood or actually causing harm. Interesting situation in Akwa Ibom!
Do you think masquerade activities should be regulated to prevent violence, or is it a cultural tradition that should be preserved?