The Anambra State Police Command has identified Ifesinachi Ezeolu, a 28-year-old male, as the individual behind the violent conduct exhibited during a masquerade outing in Awgbu community, following widespread public outrage over reports of assaults, intimidation, and disorder during the event.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the identification followed preliminary investigations triggered by complaints from residents who alleged that the masquerade was used as a cover to harass and assault members of the public.
“The Anambra State Police Command respects and recognises the rich cultural and traditional practices of our people,” Ikenga stated. “However, no cultural activity or belief system should be used as a shield to harass, assault, intimidate, or violate the fundamental human rights of citizens.”
The Command stressed that masquerade outings, like all public gatherings, must be conducted peacefully and strictly within the confines of the law, warning that cultural expression does not confer immunity from legal responsibility.
“Any act capable of causing fear, injury, or public disorder will be promptly addressed in line with the law,” the statement said, adding that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other individuals linked to the incident.
Reaffirming the Police Command’s commitment to public safety, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, assured residents that the Force would continue to strike a balance between cultural preservation and the protection of citizens’ rights.
“The Command will keep working closely with traditional rulers, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders to encourage peaceful cultural expressions, while ensuring the safety, dignity, and rights of all residents are fully protected,” Ikenga said on behalf of the Commissioner.
The Police urged members of the public to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring that anyone found culpable in acts of violence or intimidation under the guise of culture would be held accountable.
