A woman identified as Anthonia has been rescued by local vigilantes in Delta State after she was allegedly lured into a trap by a man she met online.
The incident, which has attracted public attention after a video went viral on social media, reportedly happened in a bush area in Delta State. In the video, Anthonia was seen tied to a tree before she was freed by members of a local vigilante group.
The suspects have since been arrested and handed over to the Delta State Police Command for further investigation.
According to Anthonia’s account in the viral video, she met one of the suspects through an online platform. After communicating for some time, the man invited her to meet him in person.
Believing she was going to see someone she trusted, she agreed to the meeting. However, things reportedly turned dangerous when she arrived at the location.
Anthonia said the man and another accomplice forced her into a nearby bush. There, she was tied to a tree. She alleged that the suspects took her phone and accessed her bank information.
One of the suspects, who was caught by the vigilantes, reportedly admitted that they transferred money from her account into a betting account. He also allegedly revealed that his partner had gone to lure another victim using the same method.
The quick action of the vigilantes prevented what could have been a worse outcome. Community members who spoke after the incident said the suspects were apprehended shortly after the alarm was raised.
The Delta State Police are expected to carry out further investigations and possibly charge the suspects to court.
This incident has once again highlighted the risks associated with meeting strangers contacted online.
In recent years, cases of online fraud, romance scams, and kidnapping linked to social media contacts have increased across Nigeria. Criminals often create fake profiles to build trust with unsuspecting victims. After gaining confidence, they arrange physical meetings which sometimes end in robbery, assault, or kidnapping.
In some reported cases, victims have been robbed of money, phones, and other valuables after being lured to isolated areas. In more serious situations, victims have been kidnapped and forced to pay ransom.
Delta State, like many other states in the country, has witnessed different forms of crime ranging from armed robbery to internet fraud. Local vigilante groups often work alongside security agencies to maintain peace, especially in rural and semi-urban communities.
Community vigilance has played an important role in preventing crime in several parts of the state. In this case, the intervention of local vigilantes likely saved Anthonia from further harm.
At the time of filing this report, the Delta State Police Command had taken custody of the suspects. Police authorities are expected to question them and determine the full details of the case.
Residents have called on the police to ensure that justice is served to discourage others from engaging in similar crimes.
The incident has also sparked conversations about personal safety and the need for caution when dealing with people met online.
Security agencies and cybercrime experts often advise that individuals should avoid meeting online acquaintances in isolated places. They recommend meeting in public spaces, informing trusted friends or family members, and being careful about sharing personal or financial information.
Anthonia’s experience serves as a strong reminder of the dangers that can arise from online interactions with strangers.
While many people use social media and dating platforms for genuine relationships, criminals sometimes exploit these platforms to deceive and harm others.
Community leaders in Delta State have urged young people, especially women, to be careful when accepting invitations from people they do not know well.
They also praised the vigilance group for their swift response and cooperation with the police.
As investigations continue, authorities are expected to provide more details about the case. For now, the story stands as a warning about the risks of meeting strangers online and the importance of staying alert in an increasingly digital world.
