Gunmen Kidnap Five Rivers University Students From Off-Campus Hostel
Five students of Rivers State University (RSU) were kidnapped in the early hours of Tuesday when armed men invaded a private off-campus hostel located in Emuoha Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The attackers, who stormed the lodge around 2:00 a.m., reportedly fired several warning shots to scare residents before breaking into the building. According to eyewitnesses, the gunmen killed the hostel’s security dog and forced their way into the rooms where the students were sleeping. They abducted five occupants and escaped with them to an unknown location.
The motive behind the attack has not yet been confirmed, but security sources suggest the operation bears the characteristics of a cult-related assault, a recurring security challenge in parts of the state.
Rivers State Police Command has since deployed tactical units to the area and launched a manhunt for the perpetrators. Police spokespersons assured that efforts are underway to secure the victims’ release and restore calm to the student community.
The incident has triggered widespread fear among RSU students, particularly those living off-campus, many of whom have expressed concerns about rising insecurity around private lodges. Students are calling for improved security presence and urgent collaboration between school authorities, the police, and community leaders to prevent future attacks.
As of press time, the kidnapped students remain missing, and police operations are ongoing.
