Residents of Obukpa community in Nsukka, Enugu State, were thrown into shock on Thursday evening as security operatives apprehended a masquerade, locally known as "Spirit," for allegedly assaulting a young woman and stealing her mobile phone.
According to eyewitness accounts, the incident occurred at Umeano Junction, where the masquerade and his accomplices allegedly pounced on the unsuspecting victim, beating her up before forcefully taking away her phone. The victim immediately reported the matter to military personnel stationed nearby.
In a swift response, security operatives pursued the culprits, leading to the arrest of the masquerade while others managed to escape. The arrested suspect was reportedly beaten by the soldiers before being handed over to the Nsukka Area Command of the Nigeria Police Force.
At the police station, the suspect, stripped of his masquerade attire, was said to have begun cooperating with investigators in providing information that could lead to the arrest of his fleeing accomplices.
The dramatic incident has sparked mixed reactions among residents, with many condemning the abuse of masquerade traditions to perpetrate criminal activities. Some community members lamented that certain individuals now exploit masquerade festivals to harass, intimidate, and extort people, thereby tarnishing the cultural heritage.
The Enugu State Police Command has yet to release an official statement on the arrest as investigations continue.
