A Magistrate Court in the Nsukka Magisterial District of Enugu State has ordered the remand of three individuals linked to violent acts committed during the Oriokpa Masquerade celebration.
The accused — Emeka Eze (33), Omeke Uchechukwu (22), and Malachi Michael Nnaemeka (30) — were apprehended by officers of the Enugu State Police Command on Tuesday. They face a three-count charge involving conspiracy, extortion, and grievous bodily harm.
Police investigations revealed that the suspects participated in assaults on residents, using the cultural festivities as a cover for their actions.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, confirmed that the case has been adjourned until July 31, 2025, for further proceedings.
He also disclosed that the state’s Commissioner of Police has directed a manhunt for other suspects still at large.
The incident, which took place on June 22, was captured in a viral video showing masqueraders attacking passersby along Aku Road in Nsukka. One male victim sustained serious injuries and was hospitalized as a result.
“With support from responsible members of the community, the three suspects were identified and taken into custody, while efforts are ongoing to locate the rest,” Ndukwe stated.
He added that the Commissioner of Police has called on traditional and community leaders across Enugu State to caution their people against using cultural events to commit crimes. The police have pledged to ensure justice is served and to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
