Akwa Ibom Police arrested two masquerades and their leader for alleged masquerade violence in Etinan LGA, ensuring public safety and order.
In a decisive action to maintain law and order, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested three individuals, including two masquerades and their alleged leader, following reports of violent activities in Etinan Local Government Area.
The arrests come amid rising concerns over incidents of masquerade violence disrupting public peace in several communities across the state.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the incident occurred on Friday, January 23, 2026, at approximately 4:45 p.m., when an anonymous source alerted the police about the unruly behavior of masquerades at Mbioto II Village in Etinan LGA.
The report highlighted that the masquerades had engaged in acts of intimidation and disorderly conduct that posed a serious threat to the safety of residents.
Responding promptly to the distress call, police operatives were immediately mobilized to the area.
Upon arrival, they successfully apprehended the suspects, identified as Kenneth Bassey, 31, Ofonime Isaac, 25, and Paul Samuel Bassey, 21, who were allegedly leading and participating in the masquerade violence.
DSP Timfon John confirmed that the suspects are currently assisting the police with ongoing investigations into the incident.
“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police CP Baba Mohammad Azare, fsi, remains committed to enforcing law and order while respecting the state’s rich cultural heritage and traditions,” DSP John said in a statement on Sunday, January 26, 2026.
He added that any act of masquerade violence that threatens public peace or endangers citizens would be dealt with firmly under the law.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammad Azare, fsi, commended the swift response of police operatives and emphasized that the Command would continue to ensure that communities across Akwa Ibom State remain safe.
He reiterated that while the police respect cultural practices, activities that descend into violence or intimidation cannot be tolerated.
“Our cultural heritage is valuable and must be preserved. However, any form of masquerade violence that undermines public safety will attract strict legal consequences,” he stated.
This incident has drawn attention to a growing concern in parts of Akwa Ibom, where masquerade performances, traditionally regarded as cultural expressions, have occasionally been linked to violent or disorderly conduct.
Community leaders and local authorities have been urged to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to prevent such acts and promote peaceful celebrations.
Residents of Mbioto II Village have expressed relief following the police intervention. Speaking anonymously, some villagers said that masquerade violence has in recent times caused fear and disrupted daily activities.
“It is good that the police acted quickly. We can now feel safe moving around our community,” one resident stated.
The Akwa Ibom Police Command continues to remind the public that reporting suspicious or violent activities promptly can prevent escalation and safeguard lives.
The Command has also emphasized that cultural practices, including masquerades, should be conducted responsibly, ensuring that they do not infringe on the rights or safety of others.
Masquerade violence, though often associated with traditional festivities, has increasingly become a matter of concern when used as a cover for intimidation, harassment, or disorderly conduct.
The police have reiterated that anyone involved in such acts, regardless of age or position, will face legal action.
The ongoing investigations will determine the full extent of the suspects’ involvement in the violent acts and whether additional individuals are linked to the incident.
Law enforcement authorities have assured that justice will be served in accordance with the law, sending a clear warning against future occurrences of masquerade violence across the state.
By taking decisive action in Etinan LGA, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding public peace and protecting residents from threats that arise under the guise of cultural practices.
Residents are encouraged to cooperate with authorities and uphold community values that promote safety, respect, and peaceful coexistence.
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