Some soldiers from the Army Depot, Osogbo, have allegedly invaded the halls of residence of students of Osun State University, Osogbo and assaulted students.

During the incidents, soldiers also allegedly seized and took away over 60 mobile phones and other electronic gadgets belonging to the students.

Also during the invasion, which took place Monday evening, some female students were reportedly stripped naked and made to forcefully dance unclad by the rampaging soldiers, said to be part of the batch that had their passing-out parade last Saturday.

The perpetrators also allegedly raped a female student, but the allegation can not be immediately verified as no victim of rape could be identified among the students as of the time of filing this report.

In other incidents, soldiers were also accused of beating up male students and other residents they found adorning clothes or caps in Army colours.

The Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Clement Adebooye, who visited some of the halls of residence that were attacked by the soldiers on Tuesday, said the incident had been reported to the Army Depot management.

“We have reported to the management of the depot. It is sad that the Army Depot, located close to the campus, which we felt would give us security cover, could eventually release men that will subject our students to this kind of harrowing experience,” the VC said while addressing some of the affected students.

The Public Relations Officer of the University, Ademola Adesoji, while giving further updates on the incidents during a chat with The PUNCH, said many students were affected, adding that “over 20 have already been identified as the victims.

“The soldiers came from Osogbo Army Depot. They assaulted the students. Some female students said they were stripped by the soldiers. They also said they touched them indecently.

“Some male students were also assaulted. Two students were hospitalised, but one was discharged this morning. Over 60 gadgets, including phones, were seized from the students.

“Three of the perpetrators were identified and brought to the campus this morning. The VC has taken the matter up with the Army authority. We can’t confirm the alleged rape yet,” Adesoji said. (PUNCH)

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