Three masks seen in a viral video assaulting individuals during the celebration of masqueradas of 'Oriokpa' in the Nsukka area of the enugu state have been arrested.
This was revealed in a statement by the spokesman for the ENUGU police command, SP Daniel Ndukwe on Tuesday.
He said the masquerads were arrested on June 23 at 3:30 pm, with the help of community members.
According to Ndukwe, the suspects were arrested in relation to the alleged physical assault of citizens by the group of masks 'Oriokpa' on June 22, as captured in a viral video.
“The suspects, along with others in general, took advantage of the celebration of 'Oriokpa' to assault several innocent members of the public, inflicting body injuries about them.
“One of the victims was hospitalized to receive treatment due to injuries suffered during the attack.
“The teachers initially resisted the police arrest and fled the scene.
“However, with the help of members of the respectful community of the law, the three suspects were identified and detained,” he said.
The spokesman declared that the State Police Commissioner, Mr. Mamman Giwa, had directed an exhaustive investigation into the case to ensure that justice is served.
Ndukwe cited the commissioner as describing Masquerade celebrations as a sacred and symbolic part of the nation's cultural heritage.
However, he declared that the State Police chief condemned the actions of the people who took the opportunity to participate in criminal activities.
Ndukwe said that the commissioner warned against the use of cultural festivities such as a cover to cause riots or commit crimes against fellow citizens, as supposedly did the matters of 'Oriokpa'.
“The command is to ensure the public that all involved in the assault of the respectful citizens of the law will be taken before justice,” he added.