The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has rescued a 25-year-old woman, Promise Eze, from an alleged armed robber and ritualist in a hotel located in the Wuse district of Abuja.
The suspect, identified as Emmanuel Okoro, is currently on the run, prompting a police manhunt.
According to a statement by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the incident was reported on January 31, 2025, when hotel staff alerted the police about unusual activity in one of their rooms.
Upon arrival, officers found Eze tied to a small chair with her mouth covered in plaster, unconscious and in distress. She was immediately rushed to Wuse District Hospital, where she later regained consciousness.
Investigations revealed that Eze had checked into the hotel on January 30 with a man she initially knew as “Michael Prince,” whom she had met online. The suspect had claimed to be an oil company employee based in Delta State.
However, during police questioning, Eze disclosed that his real identity was Emmanuel Okoro from Lagos State.
“What started as an online acquaintance turned into a nightmare. The suspect brandished a dagger, threatening and restraining the victim before tying her up and taping her mouth shut,” the police statement read.
“Before fleeing, he stole her two mobile phones and was overheard speaking on the phone, telling someone he was regrouping and would return to ‘finish the job.’”
The Commissioner of Police in the FCT, CP Olatunji Disu, condemned the attack, urging the public to exercise caution when meeting strangers.
“This is a deeply disturbing case, and we are fully committed to bringing the suspect to justice,” Disu said. “We also encourage residents, especially young women, to be cautious about engaging with people they meet online.”
The police have called on anyone with information about the suspect’s whereabouts to report to the nearest station or contact the emergency lines at 08032003913 and 08107314192.