The leader of a masquerade cultural group, popularly known as “Ekpo,” has been arrested by the police in Akwa Ibom State for allegedly engaging in extortion, assault, and obstruction of public highways in the state.
The suspect, identified as Uwem Umanah, was apprehended after the police received a distress call from a concerned citizen who reported that members of the masquerade group were attacking residents, blocking a major road, and forcefully collecting money from passersby.
In a statement issued in Uyo on Saturday, the spokesperson for the Akwa Ibom Police Command, Timfon John, confirmed the arrest, noting that the masquerader and his accomplices were also armed with dangerous weapons.
John said, “According to the report received, the perpetrators were armed with spears, arrows, machetes, sticks, and other weapons, and were physically assaulting members of the public, including NYSC members.
“Further investigation revealed that the arrested masquerader, Uwem Umanah (45), was the leader of the “Ekpo” masquerade in his village and had authorised members of his group to wear masks and parade in public despite an existing ban on such activities.”
“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.”
In a related development, one David Michael (34) of Ikot Obong Edong Village was also arrested at Ukana Onuk Village while in possession of full masquerade regalia.
He was allegedly preparing to invade the area before his arrest.
Both suspects, the statement said, have been charged to court after a thorough investigation.
