Akwa Ibom: Police Arrest Masquerade for Disturbing Public Peace, Harassing NYSC members

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has apprehended the leader of a masquerade cultural group known as “Ekpo,” along with an accomplice, for a string of criminal offenses including illegal assembly, blocking a public highway by force, and extortion targeting members of the public, including NYSC participants. The leader, Uwem Umanah, aged 45, was found to have authorized the illegal public display of masquerade costumes despite an existing ban. Armed with spears, arrows, machetes, and sticks, the group physically assaulted passersby and extorted money on a blocked highway. Police acted swiftly after a distress call from a concerned citizen, moving to the scene and detaining Uwem Umanah along with David Michael, 34, who was caught with full masquerade costumes preparing for further unauthorized activities. Both suspects have been charged in court. The Police Commissioner, CP Baba Mohammad Azare, has assured the public of the command’s dedication to maintaining order and security, condemning the misuse of cultural symbols for criminal activities. Citizens are encouraged to provide timely intelligence to aid in combating such lawlessness

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