Police rescue woman chained by brother for 16 months

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has rescued a 36-year-old woman, Grace Aniekuoku, who was allegedly chained and confined in a room by her brother for more than 16 months in Abuja.

The FCT Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Sanusi, disclosed this on Monday, saying the command received a distress report on June 12, 2026, alleging that the Anambra State indigene was being unlawfully detained under inhumane conditions by her brother, Chinedu Aniekuoku.

According to the police commissioner, detectives from the Katampe Division were immediately deployed to the residence following the report.

Sanusi said the suspect became hostile and resisted officers, denying them access to the premises where his sister was being held.

The officers, however, forced their way into the room and found the victim in chains, severely emaciated and living in deplorable sanitary conditions.

The suspect was immediately arrested, while the victim was rescued and taken to a hospital, where she is currently receiving medical treatment.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect had allegedly taken the victim’s son to an unknown location about two years ago.

Police believe the prolonged confinement may have been aimed at preventing the woman from questioning the whereabouts of her missing child.

The commissioner said efforts were ongoing to locate and rescue the child, while the victim continues to receive medical care and rehabilitation.

He added that the suspect remains in police custody and would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

The FCT Police Command reiterated its commitment to protecting vulnerable persons and urged residents to promptly report cases of abuse, unlawful detention and other criminal acts to law enforcement agencies.