Police Detain Three Over Masquerade Activities That Breached Public Peace in Akwa Ibom
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has taken decisive action against individuals accused of using traditional masquerade activities to disrupt public order. Law enforcement authorities have arrested three suspects following reports of violent conduct in the Etinan Local Government Area of the state.
Swift Police Response to Distress Call
According to official statements released by the police command, the incident unfolded on Friday, January 23, 2026, around 4:45 PM. The police received an urgent distress call from an anonymous source reporting serious breaches of public peace and violent activities involving masquerades at Mbioto II Village in Etinan LGA.
Police operatives were promptly mobilized to the scene upon receiving the information. Their swift response led to the apprehension of two suspected masquerades and their alleged leader at the location of the reported disturbance.
Identities of the Detained Suspects
The police have identified the three individuals currently in custody as:
- Kenneth Bassey, a 31-year-old male
- Ofonime Isaac, a 25-year-old male
- Paul Samuel Bassey, a 21-year-old male
All suspects are now detained and are actively cooperating with police investigators as the inquiry into the incident continues. The police spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, confirmed these developments in an official statement issued on Sunday, January 26, 2026.
Police Commitment to Public Order and Cultural Respect
Commissioner of Police CP Baba Mohammad Azare, fsi, has commended the rapid response of the police operatives involved in the arrest operation. He emphasized the command's unwavering dedication to maintaining public order and ensuring safety across all communities in Akwa Ibom State.
"While the Command respects the State's rich cultural heritage and traditional practices," the Commissioner stated, "any activity that degenerates into violence, intimidation, or constitutes a threat to public peace will be met with the full force of the law."
The police statement clarified that the arrests resulted from what authorities describe as "violent and disorderly conduct carried out under the guise of masquerade activities." This incident highlights the delicate balance between preserving cultural traditions and enforcing public safety regulations in Nigerian communities.
As investigations proceed, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command continues its sustained efforts to prevent similar disturbances and maintain peaceful coexistence throughout the state. The case serves as a reminder that traditional practices must operate within legal boundaries to avoid conflicts with law enforcement priorities.
