Three Men Charged in June Manhattan Kidnapping
Federal prosecutors charged three individuals for a kidnapping and robbery that occurred in June 2026.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Crime — General
Federal prosecutors announced charges against Dani Amanuel, Kenny Fetiere, and Kibret Meles for their alleged roles in a June 11-12, 2026, kidnapping and robbery in Manhattan. The suspects reportedly lured a victim into a vehicle before assaulting him and transporting him to New Jersey.
Why it matters
The case highlights the severity of violent crimes involving abduction and the subsequent federal prosecution of those involved in interstate criminal activity. Two of the defendants are currently in custody while one remains at large.
Dani Amanuel, Kenny Fetiere, and Kibret Meles face charges of conspiracy to commit kidnapping and kidnapping. If convicted, the defendants face a maximum sentence of life in prison.
The players
Dani Amanuel
He is a 28-year-old defendant charged with kidnapping and conspiracy to commit kidnapping.
Kenny Fetiere
He is a 26-year-old defendant who was arrested on September 22, 2026, in connection with the crime.
Kibret Meles
He is a 28-year-old defendant facing federal kidnapping charges.
The details
The defendants allegedly lured the victim into a car outside a Manhattan club under the guise of providing a ride. During the transport through the Lincoln Tunnel to New Jersey, they assaulted the victim, causing facial bone fractures, a finger laceration, and bruising that required a three-day hospital stay.
Timeline
The kidnapping and robbery took place from June 11 to June 12, 2026.
Two suspects were arrested and federal charges were announced on September 22, 2026.
Legal Context
The prosecution of this Manhattan kidnapping follows the jurisdictional pattern established by the Lindbergh Law for interstate abductions. Federal authorities regularly intervene in cases where criminal acts involve the transport of victims across state borders.
Local residents and visitors are advised to exercise caution when accepting rides from strangers, especially near nightlife districts. Authorities continue to search for the remaining suspect at large following the arrests in September.
The takeaway
This case underscores the dangerous risks associated with accepting rides from unknown individuals in high-traffic nightlife areas. Travelers should prioritize using vetted transportation services to ensure personal safety while commuting.
Further reading
For more information on local criminal proceedings, visit the Crime — General section.
