3 masqueraders land in prison over alleged assault during festival

Three individuals have been ordered to remain in custody by an Enugu Magistrate Court following accusations of assault and causing injury to members of the public during the Oriokpa Masquerade celebration.

The accused—Emeka Eze (33), Omeke Uchechukwu (22), and Malachi Nnaemeka (30)—were apprehended on Tuesday by officers from the state police command.

They now face a three-count charge, which includes conspiracy, extortion through intimidation, and inflicting grievous bodily harm.

Police allege that the trio, while participating in the Oriokpa Masquerade festivities, attacked members of the public, leaving several injured.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the command’s spokesperson, Daniel Ndukwe, announced that the case has been postponed until July 31, 2025, for further proceedings.

“The Commissioner of Police has ordered intensified efforts to apprehend the remaining members of the masquerade group who are currently at large,” Ndukwe said.

A viral video recorded on June 22 along Aku Road in Nsukka captured scenes of masqueraders assaulting residents. Authorities later confirmed that a man was hospitalized due to injuries inflicted during the incident.

“Subsequently, the three suspects were identified and arrested with the assistance of law-abiding members of the community, while others fled,” Ndukwe said.