RCMP in Manitoba have issued a dangerous person alert for the Pimicikamak Cree Nation and surrounding areas after the alleged abduction of a 20-year-old woman.

Police say they’re looking for Joshua Paupanekis, 39, who is considered armed and dangerous.

The victim is believed to be in “immediate danger,” according to police.

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Cross Lake RCMP responded to an assault at 5:40 a.m. Thursday at a residence in the community about 500 km north of Winnipeg.

Investigators believe the suspect had struck a resident with a hammer and then abducted the woman at knifepoint.

“Joshua Paupanekis was last seen fleeing on foot with the victim,” RCMP said in a release.

“There is a large-scale search effort with multiple police units underway in the community to locate the victim, 20-year-old Raeanne Thomas.”

RCMP say is you see Paupanekis, don’t approach him but call police immediately at 204-676-2600.