Two RSU students arrested for hostel theft

The management of Rivers State University (RSU), Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, has confirmed the arrest of two students linked to recent thefts in campus hostels.

In a statement signed by the Registrar, Mrs. I.B.S. Harry, the university revealed that a female student was caught stealing money and clothing in Hostel C, while a male student was apprehended in possession of a stolen laptop in Hostel F. Both incidents occurred within the same week.

The affected students have been evicted from their hostels, handed over to their parents, and are expected to face the Students’ Disciplinary Committee for further action.

The arrests come amid growing complaints from students over rising cases of theft, particularly in female hostels.

Earlier in the week, unidentified intruders reportedly broke into Hostel H at about 5 a.m., stealing mobile phones and other valuables through a window.

Students have criticized the university’s security department, accusing it of focusing more on enforcing dress codes than addressing serious safety lapses.

Many believe the repeated break-ins suggest insider knowledge of hostel layouts and weak security protocols.

One concerned parent, whose daughter had her phone stolen twice this year, expressed outrage over the continued targeting of female hostels and urged university authorities to take immediate action.

This is not the first time RSU has faced serious security breaches.

In August 2023, armed robbers allegedly broke into Hostel D through the laundry room wall, stealing valuables, assaulting students, and reportedly committing rape.

That incident led to widespread protests and prompted a visit from then-Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

In response to the latest incidents, RSU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, visited Hostel C on Friday, August 1, 2025.

He ordered urgent security upgrades, including the establishment of a security post in front of the hostel, increased deployment of security personnel, and installation of protective gadgets near vulnerable drainage points.

He also directed hostel porters to be more alert and to thoroughly screen all visitors entering the premises.

“The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, has mandated immediate security reinforcements to safeguard students, including a new security post, extra personnel, and better surveillance around the hostels,” the university’s statement read.

The university assured students, parents, and staff of its ongoing commitment to maintaining a safe and secure campus environment.