The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has successfully rescued a 25-year-old woman, Promise Eze, from the grip of a suspected armed robber and ritualist in Abuja.
The suspect, identified as Emmanuel Okoro, is now the subject of an intense police manhunt after escaping the crime scene.
The rescue operation was triggered by a distress call from a hotel in Wuse on January 31, 2025, at around 11:30 am, reporting suspicious activity in one of its rooms. Upon arrival, police operatives discovered the victim tied to a small chair, her mouth sealed with plaster, and in an unconscious state.
She was immediately freed and rushed to Wuse District Hospital, where she regained consciousness.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Eze had checked into the hotel a day earlier, on January 30, 2025, at about 7:00 am, with a man she met online who initially introduced himself as Michael Prince, an alleged oil worker from Delta State. However, he later identified himself at the hotel as Emmanuel Okoro from Lagos.
According to the victim’s account, the suspect turned violent during their meeting, brandishing a dagger to subdue her before restraining her inside the bathroom.
He then fled, stealing her two mobile phones. Before escaping, he was overheard speaking to suspected accomplices, hinting at a sinister plan to return and “finish the job.”
The FCT Police Command has launched an extensive manhunt to apprehend the fugitive. Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Disu, condemned the attack and urged residents, especially young women, to exercise caution when meeting strangers.
“The safety and security of our residents remain our top priority. We urge anyone with relevant information on the suspect’s whereabouts to come forward and assist in our investigation,” CP Disu stated.
The police have provided emergency contact lines for reports and assistance:
Emergency Lines: 08032003913
Complaint Response Unit: 08107314192
The FCT Police Command reassures residents of its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and properties while urging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.