The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a masquerade allegedly linked to violent and unprovoked attacks on residents of Awgbu in Orumba North Local Government Area.
According to a statement released on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the incident took place on Monday and disrupted public peace in the community.
Ikenga said the masquerade, whose actions were captured in a viral video, is currently being held in police custody while investigations continue to ensure all those involved are brought to justice.
“The conduct displayed is unacceptable and unlawful, and will not be tolerated under any guise,” the police spokesman said.
An eyewitness told the News Agency of Nigeria that the masquerade, accompanied by some youths, assaulted members of the public and vandalised property.
The witness, who requested anonymity, said the attack occurred during the Ofala festival organised in honour of the late traditional ruler of Awgbu, Igwe Michael Okechukwu.
NAN reports that the festival was meant to be a solemn cultural celebration, but was marred by the violent actions that prompted police intervention.
