The police command in Akwa Ibom State says it has arrested two persons over an alleged obstruction of the road, extortion of unsuspecting motorists and pedestrians and involvement in unlawful activities of Ekpo masquerades.

In a statement on Saturday, the command’s spokesperson, Timfon John, said the suspects were arrested at about 2:00 p.m. when operatives were conducting routine patrols within the area. 

Ms John said the operatives intercepted two Ekpo masquerades who had allegedly blocked a section of the Etim Ekpo–Azumini road, disrupting the free flow of vehicular and pedestrian movement.


The suspects were identified as Godspower Ubong and Blessing Jumbo.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly mounted an unlawful roadblock, accosting motorists and pedestrians and demanding money from them,” Ms John said.

She noted that they were armed with machetes and other dangerous weapons, creating fear, intimidation and unnecessary tension among road users.

“A search conducted on the suspects led to the recovery of two knives suspected to have been used in furtherance of their unlawful activities,” the police spokesperson added.

The state commissioner of police, Baba Azare, warned individuals and groups who engage in unlawful roadblocks, intimidation, extortion, possession or use of dangerous weapons, and other acts capable of disrupting public peace to desist forthwith.

She said the command will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute anyone found culpable.