The Enugu State Police Command has arrested three masqueraders in connection with the assault of multiple residents during the Oriokpa masquerade festival in the Nsukka area of the state, Global hints reports
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, confirmed the arrests in a statement issued on Tuesday, noting that the suspects were apprehended on June 23 at about 3:30 p.m., with the help of vigilant community members.
According to SP Ndukwe, the incident occurred on June 22, when the Oriokpa masquerade group allegedly used the cultural celebration as cover to physically attack several individuals. A viral video of the event, which surfaced online, showed disturbing scenes of innocent citizens being assaulted.
“The suspects, along with others still at large, took advantage of the Oriokpa Masquerade celebration to assault several innocent members of the public, inflicting bodily injuries on them,” Ndukwe stated.
He further disclosed that one victim was hospitalised due to the severity of injuries sustained during the attack.
SP Ndukwe noted that the masqueraders initially resisted arrest and attempted to flee the scene, but swift intervention by police operatives and cooperation from law-abiding locals led to the identification and eventual apprehension of three of the suspects.
Masquerade festivals under scrutiny
Reacting to the incident, Commissioner of Police Mamman Giwa condemned the actions of the suspects, stressing that cultural traditions must not be exploited for criminal activities.
“Masquerade celebration, which is a sacred and symbolic aspect of the nation’s culture, was exploited to commit criminal acts by the suspects,” CP Giwa said.
He has ordered a thorough investigation to identify all parties involved and ensure that justice is served.
The incident has reignited public debate on the conduct of masquerade festivals in Nigeria, particularly where celebrations are marred by violence. The Enugu State Police have urged community leaders and cultural custodians to ensure such events are conducted peacefully and in accordance with the law.
