Three men have been remanded in prison by a Magistrate Court in Nsukka, Enugu State, over their alleged involvement in a violent masquerade attack during the recent Oriokpa Festival.
The suspects, identified as Emeka Eze (33), Omeke Uchechukwu (22), and Malachi Michael Nnaemeka (30), were arrested by operatives of the Enugu State Police Command following a disturbing incident on June 22, 2025.
During the celebration of the Oriokpa Masquerade along Aku Road in Nsukka, a group of masqueraders was captured in a viral video assaulting residents. According to the police, at least one man was seriously injured and hospitalized due to the attack.
Following investigations, the three suspects were arraigned on charges of conspiracy, demanding money with threats, and causing grievous bodily harm. They have since been remanded in prison pending further hearing, which has been scheduled for July 31, 2025.
Enugu Police spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, stated that efforts are ongoing to arrest other members of the masquerade group who fled after the incident. He added that the Commissioner of Police has urged community leaders to warn their people against using cultural events like masquerade festivals to commit crimes.
“The command will not tolerate criminal acts in the name of tradition,” Ndukwe warned, assuring the public that justice will be pursued to the fullest.
