Authorities in Tunis, Tunisia, have launched an urgent investigation after an American woman was allegedly kidnapped from the Penthouse Suites Hotel, a popular luxury destination in the capital city.
According to preliminary reports, the incident occurred late Monday evening, when security footage captured what appears to be two men forcibly dragging a woman down a hotel hallway before shoving her into an elevator. The shocking video, now circulating online, has sparked outrage and fear among both locals and tourists.
The victim, whose identity has not yet been publicly released by officials, is believed to be a U.S. national in her 30s who had been staying at the hotel for business.
“She was staying in one of our premium suites for about a week,” said a hotel employee who requested anonymity. “Everything seemed normal until she suddenly disappeared. We realized something was wrong when housekeeping couldn’t reach her the next morning.”
Local police confirmed that the woman was last seen at approximately 11:30 p.m., speaking to someone near the hotel bar. About 20 minutes later, surveillance cameras showed two unidentified men escorting her through the corridor — one holding her by the arm while another followed closely behind with what appeared to be a suitcase.
“We are treating this as a confirmed abduction,” said Colonel Karim Ben Ayed, head of the Tunis Anti-Crime Brigade. “Our teams are analyzing camera footage, interviewing witnesses, and coordinating with Interpol to identify and locate the suspects.”
The U.S. Embassy in Tunis has acknowledged the incident, confirming that it is working closely with local authorities.
“We are aware of reports of an American citizen missing in Tunis,” an embassy spokesperson said in a brief statement. “The safety and security of U.S. citizens abroad is our top priority. We are providing all necessary assistance to the family.”
Witnesses told investigators they saw a dark SUV parked outside the hotel around the same time the woman vanished. The vehicle reportedly sped away minutes before police arrived.
Authorities are currently reviewing traffic camera footage in hopes of tracking the vehicle’s route out of the city.
“Time is critical in cases like this,” Colonel Ben Ayed added. “We are using every available resource to find her.”
The Penthouse Suites management released a statement expressing “deep concern and cooperation” with law enforcement.
“We are devastated by this incident,” the statement read. “Our thoughts are with the victim and her family. We are working with police to ensure a swift resolution.”
The kidnapping has reignited conversations about tourist safety in Tunisia, particularly following a recent uptick in organized crime targeting foreigners in major cities.
Police have urged anyone with information about the suspects or the vehicle to contact the Tunisia Crime Hotline (197) immediately.
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