Akwa Ibom masquerade arrest sees three men detained for violent and disorderly conduct in Etinan LGA, police confirm ongoing investigations

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested three men for their alleged involvement in violent and disorderly conduct under the guise of masquerade activities in Etinan Local Government Area.

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According to a statement from the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the suspects were apprehended on Friday, January 23, 2026, at around 4:45pm, following a distress call from an anonymous source about a breach of public peace at Mbioto II Village.

The arrested individuals—Kenneth Bassey, 31; Ofonime Isaac, 25; and Paul Samuel Bassey, 21—are currently assisting the police with investigations.

DSP John explained that the operatives were swiftly mobilised to the scene and detained the suspects, who were allegedly involved in violent masquerade activities.

“The Akwa Ibom State Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police CP Baba Mohammad Azare, in its sustained efforts to maintain peace and public order, has arrested three individuals for their alleged involvement in violent and disorderly conduct carried out under the guise of masquerade activities in Etinan LGA,” the statement read.

CP Azare commended the prompt action of police operatives and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to public safety across the state.

While acknowledging the importance of the state’s rich cultural heritage and traditional practices, he warned that any activity that degenerates into violence or intimidation would be met with the full force of the law.

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The arrest highlights the police’s zero-tolerance stance on actions that threaten public order, even when linked to cultural events, reinforcing efforts to ensure safety in all Akwa Ibom communities.