An RCMP collar tab pin is seen in Edmonton, Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson)
Manitoba RCMP say a woman abducted in Pimicikamak Cree Nation on Thursday has been safely located and the suspect has been arrested.
Over the past 24 hours, Manitoba and Saskatchewan RCMP deployed multiple units, including a specialized search plane and dozens of officers from across both provinces, to assist in the search.
At about 11:15 a.m. Friday, police received information that led officers to a residence in the community, where 39-year-old Joshua Paupanekis was taken into custody without incident. The 20-year-old woman, Raeanne Thomas, was also found inside the residence with minor injuries and taken to the nursing station as a precaution.
The investigation began Thursday at about 5:40 a.m., when Cross Lake RCMP responded to a report of an aggravated assault at a residence. Police allege Paupanekis entered a home and struck a 24-year-old resident with a hammer, then abducted Thomas while armed with a knife.
Thomas’ abduction prompted a provincial emergency alert to be sent out to devices late Thursday morning.
Police say the investigation remains ongoing.
At approximately 11:15 a.m., RCMP working on the Pimicikamak Cree Nation were able to locate a male suspect and the female he abducted following an extensive search. Raeanne Thomas, 20, was located safely. Joshua Paupanekis, 39, was arrested and faces charges. pic.twitter.com/sGus0IghCe
— RCMP Manitoba (@rcmpmb) February 6, 2026
