The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has commenced a manhunt for a man accused of violently assaulting his spouse in Abuja.

The head of NAPTIP’s rapid response unit, Emeh Magnus, said this in a statement in Abuja on Wednesday.

He stated that the suspect, accused of inflicting life-threatening injuries on his wife, had absconded to an unknown location, evading arrest.

Mr Magnus said the victim, whose identity was not disclosed, had been rushed to a hospital in the Gudu District, where she underwent emergency surgery.

He said NAPTIP operatives were said to have been present throughout the procedure to monitor her condition and secure necessary evidence.

Mr Magnus said that following the attack, a NAPTIP rapid response team proceeded to the suspect’s residence in Jabi to effect an arrest.

“However, the operatives were allegedly prevented from gaining access by a retired military officer, who reportedly insisted the case was a private family matter,” he said.

The agency claimed the officer subsequently facilitated the suspect’s escape to an undisclosed location.

Mr Magnus said NAPTIP, in response, raised an inter-agency alert and notified the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Immigration Service, and relevant military authorities to track and apprehend the suspect.

He said the suspect’s international passport had been flagged to prevent any attempt to leave the country.

“The agency has filed a report with the Inspector General of Police and the Chief of Defence Staff over the alleged obstruction by the retired officer,’’ he said.

Mr Magnus reiterated that domestic violence was a criminal offence under Nigerian law and warned that all parties involved in aiding the suspect would be investigated.

“We remain committed to ensuring justice for victims of domestic violence. This case will be pursued to its lawful conclusion,” he stated.

Mr Magnus, however, said the victim was reported to be in stable condition and under close medical observation.

(NAN)