Anambra: Police arrest masquerade seen in viral video attacking performer on stage

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a masquerade captured in a viral video attacking a performer during a public event in Awgbu, Orumba North Local Government Area of the state.

The incident, which sparked widespread reactions on social media, reportedly occurred during a burial ceremony that coincided with a royal Ofala festival in the community. In the video, the masquerade was seen mounting the stage where a musician was performing and physically assaulting him, causing panic among guests and disrupting the event.

Confirming the arrest, the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the masquerade was taken into custody following investigations triggered by the circulation of the video online. He described the attack as unprovoked and a clear breach of public peace.

According to the police, the actions of the masquerade were unlawful and would not be excused under cultural or traditional practices. The command stressed that no individual or group has the right to inflict harm on others or disrupt public gatherings.

“The Command has taken into custody the masquerade involved in the unprovoked and violent attack on innocent citizens in Awgbu, Orumba North Local Government Area,” the statement said, adding that such conduct would not be tolerated under any guise.

The police also confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify and arrest other persons who may have aided or encouraged the assault. The suspect remains in police custody as inquiries continue.

The musician attacked in the video was said to be entertaining guests, including the traditional ruler of Awgbu Kingdom, Igwe Michael Okechukwu, when the incident occurred. The reason for the attack remains unclear, as authorities have not established any prior confrontation between the masquerade and the performer.

The Anambra State Police Command assured residents of its commitment to maintaining law and order and urged the public to avoid taking the law into their own hands. The command added that further developments would be communicated as the investigation progresses.