The Enugu State Police Command has apprehended three individuals in connection with a viral video showing members of the Oriokpa Masquerade group assaulting innocent people in Nsukka.
The incident occurred on June 22, 2025, during the Oriokpa Masquerade celebration.
According to the police, in a statement on Tuesday, the suspects exploited the cultural festivities to commit criminal acts, inflicting bodily injuries on several people.
“One victim was hospitalized due to the severity of their injuries,” the statement noted. “The police acted swiftly, and with the help of law-abiding community members, the three suspects were identified and arrested.”
The Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, according to the statement signed by the Command’s spokesperson SP Daniel Ndukwe, condemned the actions of the suspects, emphasizing that masquerade celebrations are a sacred part of the culture.
“Masquerade celebrations are a sacred and symbolic aspect of our culture, but we will not tolerate the use of cultural festivities as a cover for fomenting trouble and committing crimes against fellow citizens,” CP Giwa said. “All those involved will be brought to justice.”
The statement noted that the police have launched a thorough investigation into the incident and assured the public that all perpetrators will face the consequences of their actions.
