Akwa Ibom Police Warn Masquerades Against Criminal Acts, Vow Tough Crackdown
Uyo, September 18, 2025
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has issued a strong warning to individuals and groups using masquerade festivals as a cover for criminal activities, vowing to deal decisively with offenders.
In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, expressed concern over the rising involvement of masquerades in unlawful acts, including drug peddling, illegal possession of firearms, public assaults, and aiding criminal gangs.
“Masquerades are meant to bring joy and showcase our rich cultural identity, not to serve as a disguise for criminal elements,” CP Azare declared. “It is utterly disheartening to see this revered tradition being desecrated by a few misguided individuals who are tarnishing our cultural values.”
The Commissioner warned that the Police Command would no longer tolerate such abuses, stressing that intelligence operations and surveillance would be intensified to track down offenders. He added that anyone caught using masquerade costumes to perpetrate crime would face the full wrath of the law.
“My message to these criminals is clear: desist from these acts immediately or be prepared to face the consequences. The long arm of the law will catch up with you, and you will be brought to book,” he said.
The Police Command also called on community leaders, traditional rulers, and residents to cooperate with law enforcement by providing credible information that will help stop the trend.
The statement reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives, safeguarding cultural values, and ensuring that masquerade festivals remain symbols of heritage, celebration, and peace.