The Enugu State Police Command has detained three masqueraders in Nsukka over claims of attacking members of the public during a traditional event.
In a statement made public on Tuesday in Enugu, Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, noted that the arrests were carried out by police officers with help from locals in the area. The suspects were picked up on June 23 at about 3:30 p.m.
The arrests are linked to an alleged attack that occurred during the Oriokpa masquerade event held on June 22. A video of the incident had gone viral, showing individuals dressed as masqueraders assaulting several residents without any known provocation.
“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.
“One of the victims was hospitalised for treatment due to injuries sustained during the attack.
“The masqueraders initially resisted police arrest and fled the scene. However, with the assistance of law-abiding community members, the three suspects were later identified and apprehended,” the police spokesman said.
SP Ndukwe added that the Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Mamman Giwa, has directed that a full investigation be carried out. According to him, those behind the violence must be held responsible to serve as a warning to others.
Giwa also noted that while masquerade celebrations hold deep cultural value and are considered sacred in many communities, they must not be turned into platforms for violence or criminal activity. He stressed that no tradition or belief gives anyone the right to harm others or break the law.
