The Anambra State Police Command has identified a 28-year-old man, Ifesinachi Ezeolu, as the person behind 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.

The incident, which sparked public outrage, came to light after a viral video circulated online showing a masquerade chasing and attacking passers-by, disrupting a public event, and causing tension in the community.

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

Following the incident, operatives of the Anambra State Police Command arrested the masquerader and took him into custody for investigation.

In a statement released on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed that investigations revealed that Ifesinachi Ezeolu was the individual inside the masquerade costume responsible for the violent conduct.

Ikenga said the arrest followed widespread public concern and reports of assaults and intimidation of residents during the festival, adding that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other individuals linked to the incident.

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

“This follows widespread public concern and reports of assaults and intimidation of residents during the occasion,” it added.

The police spokesperson stressed that while the Nigeria Police Force respects and recognises cultural and traditional practices, such activities must not be used as a cover to violate the rights of citizens.

“The command wishes to clearly state that no cultural activity or belief system should be used to harass, assault, intimidate, or violate the fundamental human rights of citizens,” Ikenga said.

He further noted that masquerade activities, like all public gatherings, must be conducted peacefully and in accordance with the law, warning that