Three ‘Oriokpa’ Masquerades Arrested Over Viral Assault Video

Three masqueraders seen in a viral video assaulting individuals during the ‘Oriokpa’ Masquerade celebration in Nsukka, Enugu State, have been arrested.

The Enugu Police Command Spokesman, SP Daniel Ndukwe, confirmed the arrests in a statement released on Tuesday.

He said the suspects were apprehended on June 23 at around 3:30 p.m. with the assistance of community members.

According to Ndukwe, the arrests are linked to the alleged physical assault of citizens by the ‘Oriokpa’ Masquerade group on June 22, as depicted in the widely circulated video.

“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,” he said.

The spokesman stated that the Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Mr. Mamman Giwa, has ordered a thorough investigation into the case to ensure that justice is served.

Ndukwe quoted the commissioner as acknowledging that masquerade celebrations are a sacred and symbolic aspect of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

However, the police chief strongly condemned the actions of those who exploit such cultural events to engage in criminal behavior.

He further warned against using cultural festivities as a cover to cause unrest or commit crimes against fellow citizens, as allegedly done by the ‘Oriokpa’ masqueraders.

“The command is assuring the public that all those involved in the assault of law-abiding citizens will be brought to justice,” he added.