According to a statement released by the command’s public relations officer, DSP Timfon John, in Uyo on Saturday, the suspect was taken into custody following a distress call from a worried citizen (name withheld), who disclosed that the masquerade cultural group was extorting money from people, attacking citizens, and blocking a public highway.
“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two individuals, including the leader of a masquerade cultural group, for a series of criminal activities, including illegal assembly, armed blockage of a public highway, and extortion,” the statement partially states.
“A concerned citizen (name withheld) reported the illegal display of a masquerade cultural group that was attacking citizens, blocking a public highway, and extorting money from members of the public passing through the route. This led to the arrest.” The information from the distress call indicated that the criminals were also physically attacking members of the public, including NYSC members, while carrying machetes, rods, spherical arrows, and other weapons.
“An investigation found that Uwem Umanah ‘M,’ the 45-year-old leader of the village’s “Ekpo” masquerade, had given members permission to wear masks and disguise themselves in masquerade costumes in public, even though such displays were prohibited.” Operatives of the Command were sent to the area as soon as they received the information, and they apprehended Uwem Umanah, the accused mastermind.
In a similar development, David Michael “M,” a 34-year-old resident of Ikot Obong Edong Village, was detained in Ukana Onuk Village while preparing to attack the region while wearing full masquerade costumes.
After a comprehensive investigation, the two individuals were charged in court.
The public has been reassured by CP Baba Mohammad Azare, the Commissioner of Police for Akwa Ibom State Command, of the command’s steadfast dedication to upholding law and order.
Acts of violence, intimidation, or lawlessness under any pretense—including the unapproved use of cultural artifacts to commit crimes—will not be tolerated by the police.
In order to prevent crime and guarantee that all communities remain safe and secure for legal activities, members of the public are urged to keep giving the police timely and helpful information.
