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Man Detained Over Alleged Sexual Assault of Model and Friend Under False Pretenses
A 23-year-old man named Abidemi Emmanuel has been placed in custody after being accused of sexually assaulting a model, Fems Thrift, and her companion. The victims were reportedly lured with the promise of a modeling job that turned out to be fraudulent.
Legal Proceedings and Investigation Status
Emmanuel appeared before a magistrate court in Lagos State on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. Following his arraignment, the court adjourned the case until March 19, 2026, for further hearings. According to Abimbola Adebisi, the Public Relations Officer for the Lagos State Police Command, Emmanuel remains in a correctional facility as investigations continue.
Details of the Incident
On February 11, Fems Thrift publicly revealed that she was contacted via Instagram by a man claiming to have recently relocated from the United Kingdom to establish an international fashion brand in Nigeria. He offered her ₦140,000 for a modeling assignment and requested that she use her social media platforms to promote the brand.
For safety reasons, Fems brought a friend along to the supposed shoot location in Ajao Estate. Upon arrival, they found the venue to be an empty residential apartment rather than a professional studio. When questioned, Emmanuel explained that he had rented the space for the shoot and that the makeup artist was temporarily absent.
Allegations of Coercion and Threats
As preparations for the shoot began, Emmanuel allegedly brandished a knife, threatening the women before restraining them with socks. He then reportedly sexually assaulted both victims. Furthermore, he is accused of confiscating their phones and transferring private photos and videos to his device via AirDrop. Emmanuel allegedly threatened to distribute these materials online if the victims reported the incident.
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
Following widespread public concern, the Lagos State Police arrested Emmanuel on February 14, 2026. The case is currently under the jurisdiction of the Command’s Gender Unit, which specializes in handling sexual offenses and related crimes.
sexual assault of model and friend after fake modeling job” style=”max-width:100%; height:auto; display:block; margin: 0 auto;” />Context and Broader Implications
This case highlights the increasing risks models and influencers face amid the rise of social media-based scams. According to recent data from the Nigerian Police Force, reports of fraudulent job offers leading to sexual exploitation have surged by 15% in the past year. Victims are urged to verify the legitimacy of job offers and avoid attending meetings alone in unfamiliar locations.
