Police in Brazil rescued a 24-year-old woman after she was allegedly chained and gagged to a bed for four days by her ex-husband. Emiliane Tamara Nunes Carvalho was found trembling heavily in a rented property in Águas Lindas de Goiás, where she had been held captive.
Abduction and discovery
Emiliane was last seen on CCTV at around 1pm on 17 August, after leaving a clinic and crossing a footbridge. She then stopped responding to calls and messages, prompting police to be alerted to her disappearance. During the investigation, officers identified a history of domestic violence involving her ex-partner, Ailton Rodrigues, who had also not been seen since leaving work on 17 August.
Investigators discovered that Rodrigues had bought a new car, which was spotted travelling through Águas Lindas de Goiás on Friday (August 21), leading to his arrest. Police subsequently located a house he had rented, which was found chained shut with a padlock. After hearing noises from inside, officers gained entry and found Emiliane immobilised and struggling to breathe in one of the rooms.
Confession and charges
Rodrigues confessed to drugging her with antidepressants and taking her to the property, according to police. Disorientated, Emiliane did not know how many days she had been there and had to be told by officers. She has since received medical treatment, been discharged from hospital, and is recovering well.
Rodrigues is expected to face charges of kidnapping and illegal possession of a firearm after police seized a 9mm pistol at the property. The motive for the crime remains under investigation. However, a letter found at the property suggested Emiliane feared she might be killed, as she told her family not to call the police and made arrangements for her belongings.
Victim's account
According to Emiliane, her relationship with Rodrigues had ended in December 2025. She revealed online: "I'm completely burned inside because he used to put acid-soaked cloths inside me." Emiliane added: "I ask for everyone's help and support to keep holding my hand so we can win this battle and stop him from hurting any more women."
