In a dramatic rescue operation, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command saved a young woman from the clutches of a suspected armed robber and ritualist in Abuja. The incident, which occurred at a hotel in the Wuse district, has sparked widespread concern and prompted an immediate manhunt for the suspect.
The FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, confirmed the incident in a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday. According to the statement, 25-year-old Promise Eze from Ebonyi State was found tied to a small chair, her mouth covered with plaster, and in a state of unconsciousness when police officers arrived at the scene on January 31, 2025.
The victim was rushed to Wuse District Hospital, where she regained consciousness and provided crucial details about her harrowing ordeal. Preliminary investigations revealed a disturbing pattern of deception and violence, shedding light on the suspect’s sinister intentions.
A Distress Call Leads to a Life-Saving Intervention
The incident unfolded when hotel staff in the Wuse district noticed suspicious activity in one of their rooms and promptly alerted the police. Responding swiftly to the distress call, police operatives arrived at the scene at approximately 11:30 AM and discovered Promise Eze in a dire condition.
“The victim was found tied to a small chair, with her mouth covered in plaster. She was unconscious and in distress,” the statement read. Officers acted immediately, freeing her from captivity and rushing her to Wuse District Hospital, where she received urgent medical attention and was resuscitated.
The Suspect’s Web of Deception
Further investigations revealed that Promise Eze had checked into the hotel on January 30, 2025, at about 7:00 AM, accompanied by a man who identified himself as Emmanuel Okoro from Lagos State. However, during police questioning, the victim disclosed that she had met the suspect online, where he used the alias Michael Prince and claimed to be an oil company employee based in Delta State.
Initially, the suspect had invited her to Delta State, but after she declined, they agreed to meet in Abuja. Tragically, what was meant to be an innocent meeting turned into a nightmare.
“The suspect allegedly brandished a dagger, using it to threaten and subdue the victim before restraining her by tying her hands and legs and taping her mouth shut inside the bathroom,” the statement revealed. He then fled the scene, stealing her two mobile phones.
A Chilling Revelation
Before escaping, the victim overheard the suspect speaking to suspected accomplices over the phone, informing them that he was on his way to regroup before returning to the hotel to “finish the job.” This chilling revelation underscores the gravity of the situation and the suspect’s potential involvement in more sinister activities, including ritual killings.
Police Launch Manhunt for Fleeing Suspect
Recognizing the severity of the crime, the FCT Police Command has launched a full-scale manhunt for the suspect. The Commissioner of Police, FCT, CP Olatunji Disu, strongly condemned the act of violence and urged residents—especially young women—to exercise caution when meeting individuals they do not know personally.
“The FCT Police Command remains unwavering in its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents,” the statement emphasized. The Commissioner also called on anyone with relevant information that could lead to the suspect’s arrest to immediately contact the police through the following emergency lines: 08032003913 and Complaint Response Unit: 08107314192.
A Broader Warning to the Public
The incident has prompted the FCT Police Command to issue a broader warning to residents, urging them to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities. The police emphasized the importance of community cooperation in combating crime and ensuring public safety.
“We urge residents to be cautious and avoid sharing personal information with strangers, especially online. The safety of our community is a shared responsibility,” the statement added.
The Human Cost of Online Deception
Promise Eze’s ordeal highlights the dangers of online interactions and the potential risks of meeting strangers in person. Her story serves as a cautionary tale for young women and others who may be lured into dangerous situations by individuals with malicious intent.
While the victim is now safe and receiving support, the psychological trauma of her experience will likely take time to heal. Her case has also drawn attention to the need for greater awareness and education about online safety and the importance of verifying the identities of individuals before meeting them in person.
A Call for Stronger Measures Against Cybercrime
The incident has reignited calls for stronger measures to combat cybercrime and protect vulnerable individuals from online predators. Experts have emphasized the need for stricter regulations on social media platforms and dating apps, as well as increased efforts to educate the public about the risks of online interactions.
“We must take proactive steps to address the growing threat of cybercrime and ensure that individuals are equipped with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves,” said a cybersecurity expert.
Conclusion: A Community on Alert
The rescue of Promise Eze is a testament to the swift and decisive action of the FCT Police Command. However, it also serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that lurk both online and offline. As the manhunt for the suspect continues, the community remains on alert, united in its determination to ensure that justice is served and that such incidents are prevented in the future.
For now, the focus is on supporting the victim and bringing the perpetrator to justice. But beyond this case, there is a pressing need for broader efforts to address the root causes of such crimes and to create a safer environment for all residents of the Federal Capital Territory.
