THREE ARRESTED OVER VIRAL MASQUERADE ATTACK IN NSUKKA, POLICE LAUNCH MANHUNT FOR OTHERS

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

The Enugu State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of three individuals in connection with the recent violent assault by the Oriokpa Masquerade group on innocent residents of Nsukka, a university town in Nsukka Local Government Area.

The incident, which occurred on June 22, 2025, was captured in a viral video showing the masquerade group attacking members of the public, leaving at least one victim hospitalised with serious injuries.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, said the arrests were made on June 23 at about 3:30 p.m. by operatives attached to the Nsukka Urban Division, working in collaboration with law-abiding members of the community.

“The suspects, alongside others still at large, took advantage of the Oriokpa Masquerade celebration to physically assault several members of the public, causing bodily harm,” the statement read.

Ndukwe disclosed that the masqueraders initially resisted arrest and fled the scene, but were later identified and apprehended with the help of community members.

Reacting to the incident, the Enugu State Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Giwa, ordered a full-scale investigation into the assault, assuring that all perpetrators will be brought to justice.

While acknowledging the cultural significance of masquerade festivals, CP Giwa condemned the criminal exploitation of such events. He warned that cultural celebrations must not be used as a cover for violence or criminal activities.

He reassured the public of the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and maintaining law and order across the state.