The Bancroft Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has charged a 22-year-old Ottawa man following a kidnapping incident in Bancroft.
The incident took place in September 2024, when a resident of Bancroft was taken against their will to Ottawa. The individual was forced to withdraw a large sum of money from various bank branches before being returned to Bancroft unharmed.
Following a detailed investigation, the Bancroft OPP Crime Unit issued an arrest warrant for the suspect. On Tuesday, January 28, the wanted man was arrested during a routine traffic stop by OPP officers in the Upper Ottawa Valley.
Bienvenu Molemangabo, age 22, faces several serious charges, including:
- Robbery using a firearm
- Extortion while using a firearm
- Kidnapping while using a firearm
- Forcible confinement
- Assault with a weapon
- Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose
- Uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm
- Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000
Molemangabo was remanded in custody following a bail hearing on January 29, 2025. Police believe this was a targeted incident and have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat.
The OPP continues to investigate the case.
(Written by: Emma Butler)