Bolatito Mercy
Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have arrested three individuals in connection with a suspected masquerade-related disturbance along Mbak Akpan Ekpenyong, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to maintaining peace and security across the state.
The suspects were apprehended on August 31, 2026, after the Police received a distress call at about 5:52 p.m. regarding the incident.
Following the alert, police personnel were deployed to the area, where they restored calm and prevented the situation from escalating further.
The Police said other participants at the scene fled upon sighting the officers, while masquerade items recovered from the arrested suspects were taken into custody as exhibits.
The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, praised the officers for their swift response and professional conduct in managing the situation.
Azare cautioned individuals and groups against exploiting cultural or traditional activities to engage in acts capable of disrupting public order, intimidation or violence, stressing that the Command would not allow any action that threatens the peace and safety of residents.
The Commissioner noted that the Police respect legitimate cultural and traditional practices and would continue to collaborate with stakeholders to ensure such activities are carried out peacefully and in accordance with the law.
He further urged residents to remain alert and report suspicious activities, security threats and any breach of public order to the nearest police station or through approved emergency channels.
