The management of Rivers State University (RSU), Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, has confirmed the arrest of two students in connection with recent theft incidents reported in campus hostels.

According to a statement signed by the Registrar, Mrs. I. B. S. Harry, the suspects — a female student caught stealing money and clothing in Hostel C, and a male student found with a stolen laptop in Hostel F—were apprehended within the same week.

Both students have been evicted from the hostels, handed over to their parents, and will face the Students’ Disciplinary Committee for further action.

This development follows rising concerns from students about increasing theft, particularly in female hostels. On Monday, hoodlums reportedly broke into Hostel H through a window at around 5 a.m., stealing mobile phones and other valuables.

Students have criticized the university’s security department, accusing it of prioritizing enforcement of dress codes over ensuring safety.

Many claim the recurring thefts suggest that the attackers are familiar with the campus layout and are exploiting lapses in security.

A parent, whose daughter has had her phone stolen twice this year, voiced frustration over the continued targeting of female hostels, demanding urgent intervention from university authorities.

This is not the first time such incidents have occurred. In August 2023, armed robbers reportedly invaded Hostel D, gaining entry through the laundry room wall.

During that attack, valuables were stolen, students were assaulted, and cases of rape were allegedly reported. The incident sparked campus-wide protests and prompted a visit from then-Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Reacting to the latest incidents, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, visited Hostel C on Friday, August 1, 2025, and ordered immediate security upgrades.

These include the erection of a new security post in front of the hostel, deployment of additional security personnel in the area, and installation of protective gadgets around vulnerable drainage channels near the hostel.

He also Instructed hostel porters to be more vigilant and thoroughly screen all visitors.

“The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, today, Friday, 1st August, 2025, visited Hostel C and directed that a security post be erected in front of the hostel immediately, alongside the deployment of additional security operatives and installation of protective gadgets around the drainage close to the hostel.

He urged the porters to be vigilant and screen all visitors,” the statement read.

The university assured students, parents, and staff of its commitment to ensuring a safe and secure campus environment. (The Guardian)