Suspect in violent assault of Toronto woman on Vancouver’s seawall released on house arrest

The suspect in the stranger attack on Vancouver’s seawall last month has been released from custody, Vancouver police announced on Tuesday. Peterhans Nungu, 34, was arrested and charged with assault causing bodily harm in connection with the incident that took place in Coal Harbour on April 15.

Following the attack, a Toronto woman took to social media to share the harrowing details of the violent assault. In a TikTok video, the woman described how a man approached her while she was walking near her hotel in Coal Harbour. The man allegedly made threatening remarks, then proceeded to grab her jacket and throw her to the ground. Despite her efforts to fight him off, he continued to pursue her, even smashing her phone when she attempted to call for help. The woman recounted being struck in the head multiple times, causing her to briefly lose consciousness.

In a press release issued on Tuesday, Vancouver police revealed that Nungu had been granted bail on April 23 and subsequently transferred to a secure medical facility for supervision. He was released from the facility on Tuesday and will now be living under house arrest in Vancouver. As part of his bail conditions, Nungu is prohibited from contacting the victim, possessing weapons, or consuming drugs and alcohol. He will be under constant house arrest unless granted permission to leave for work or medical appointments.

It was also disclosed that Nungu had been charged in Surrey on April 14 with assaulting a peace officer, making threats of bodily harm or death to another person, and threatening to cause damage to property. He appeared in court that day and was released.

Police emphasized that they will closely monitor Nungu during his release and urged the public to report any breaches of his bail conditions. The safety and well-being of the victim remain a top priority, and measures are in place to ensure her protection.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of personal safety and vigilance, particularly in public spaces. Authorities are encouraging anyone with information related to the case to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.