The Anambra State Police Command has unmasked the individual behind a violent masquerade that reportedly unleashed fear on residents of Awgbu community, revealing him as a 28-year-old man, Ifesinachi Ezeolu.
The disclosure followed widespread public outrage over alleged cases of assault, intimidation and harassment linked to the masquerade’s recent outing in the community.
In a statement issued on the incident by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, the Command stressed that while it respects and recognises the rich cultural and traditional practices of the people, no cultural activity should be used as a shield for lawlessness or abuse of citizens’ rights.
According to the police, masquerade displays, like all public gatherings, must be peaceful and conducted within the limits of the law. Any act capable of instilling fear, causing injury or disrupting public order, the Command warned, will not be tolerated.
The police further revealed that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other suspects connected to the violent masquerade outing.
Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, mnips, PhD, reassured residents of Awgbu and the general public of the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
He added that the police would continue to collaborate with traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders to promote peaceful cultural expressions, while firmly clamping down on any form of rights violations carried out under the guise of tradition.
The Command urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring that anyone found culpable would be brought to justice.
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