The Anambra State Police Command has revealed that a male suspect, Ifesinachi Ezeolu aged 28 years, as the person inside the violent masquerade that carried out several unprovoked attacks on residents during a festival in Awgbu community, Orumba North Local Government Area of the state.

Recall that in a viral video that recently circulated online, the masquerade was seen chasing and attacking passers-by, residents and also disrupting a public function, thereby causing tension.

The incident was said to have occurred over the weekend during the last Ofala Festival of the traditional ruler of Awgbu community.

Following the development, the Anambra State Police Command arrested the masquerade and took him into custody.

However, a press statement released on Saturday by the spokesman for the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, revealed that the 28-year-old suspect was behind the masquerade.

Ikenga said his violent conducts followed widespread public concern and reports of assaults and intimidation of residents in the occasion, adding that investigations are ongoing to identify and bring to justice other suspects who are linked to the incident.

The statement read in part, “The Anambra State Police Command has revealed a male suspect, Ifesinachi Ezeolu aged 28 years as the person inside the violent conduct displayed during the outing of a masquerade in Awgbu community.

“This follows widespread public concern and reports of assaults and intimidation of residents in the occasion.

“The command wishes to clearly state that the Nigeria Police Force respects and recognises the cultural and traditional practices of the people.

“However, no cultural activity or belief system should be used as a cover to harass, assault, intimidate, or violate the fundamental human rights of citizens.

“The command also emphasizes that masquerade activities, like all public gatherings, must be conducted peacefully and within the confines of the law. Therefore, any act capable of causing fear, injury, or public disorder will be promptly addressed.

“Meanwhile, investigations are ongoing to identify and bring to justice other suspects who are linked to the incident.

“The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, reassures residents that the Command will continue to work with traditional rulers, community leaders, and stakeholders to promote peaceful cultural expressions, while ensuring the safety and rights of all individuals.”

PUNCH Online on January 15, reported that the Anambra State Police Command arrested a masquerader accused of unleashing unprovoked violent attacks on residents during a festival in Awgbu, Orumba North Local Government Area of the state.

The arrest followed the circulation of viral video clips showing the masquerader chasing and assaulting passers-by, disrupting a public function and creating panic in the community.

Our correspondent gathered on Wednesday that the incident occurred during the last Ofala Festival of the late traditional ruler of Awgbu.

Footage from the scene showed the masquerader going on a rampage—forcefully pushing riders off motorcycles, chasing people on sight and destroying equipment—while being cheered on by followers. (PUNCH)

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