Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have arrested Chinedu Aniekuoku, 36, for allegedly holding his sister, Grace Aniekuoku, captive in chains for over a year and four months in Abuja. The arrest followed a distress report received by the police on June 12, 2024, which prompted an immediate response from law enforcement. Commissioner of Police Ahmed Sanusi disclosed the development during a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, confirming that the victim was rescued in a severely emaciated condition and found confined in a room under deplorable sanitary conditions.
According to Sanusi, the suspect resisted police entry when officers from Katampe Division arrived at the scene. Despite his hostility, the officers forced entry and discovered Grace Aniekuoku chained and lying in her own waste, unable to move freely. The victim was immediately rescued and rushed to a hospital for medical treatment, where she remains under care in an undisclosed facility. The suspect, Chinedu Aniekuoku, was arrested on the spot and is currently in police custody.
Preliminary investigations reveal that the suspect had also forcibly taken the victim’s son away to an unknown location approximately two years ago. The police believe he kept his sister locked away to prevent her from inquiring about or reporting the disappearance of her child. Authorities are now actively working to trace and rescue the missing boy, with ongoing efforts to gather more information from witnesses and forensic evidence.
Sanusi commended the residents of the FCT for their role in the successful operation, highlighting that the timely intelligence provided by “patriotic citizens” was crucial to the rescue. He emphasized that the police remain committed to protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring justice is served. The suspect will be charged in court once the investigation is complete, and further details will be released as the case progresses.
This incident has drawn widespread attention across Nigeria, underscoring the importance of community vigilance and reporting suspected abuse. The FCT Police Command has urged the public to remain alert and report any signs of domestic violence or human rights violations. The case also highlights the need for stronger support systems for victims of prolonged abuse and missing persons. As authorities continue their efforts, the hope is that justice will be served and the victim’s son will be found safe.
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