Armed robbers allegedly broke into a female dormitory at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra State, in the early hours of Friday, raping about nine female students.
The robbers, who were believed to number around 20, raided the hostels on Ifite Road in Awka, firing randomly and looting residents as they went from room to room.
The robbers were well-armed with firearms, axes, and matchets, according to a university student who did not want her identity to be disclosed by the media.
“We were at the hostel when we had gunshots that lasted for about ten minutes and we ran for our lives because they had not gotten to our own hostel; we hid at the back of some shops in the area.
“Then we had loud noise of female students shouting for help but nobody could summon the courage to stop them because they are well armed. Those that attempted to resist were beaten blue black and many people got injured but I cannot say the number of people affected.
“One of the female students that were raped is a virgin and they raped her twice and we are holding her because she wants to commit suicide.”
It was reported that Gov. Charles Soludo received a call and ordered security personnel to attack the robbers. However, the operation was nearly complete by the time the security personnel arrived.
Students in the neighbourhood were previously attacked at bars and eateries, four days prior to the tragedy.
According to Police Public Relations Officer DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, who confirmed the event, “Our men on getting wind of the information got to Ifite Awka and were able to battle the criminals.”
He did not reveal how many persons were arrested because, according to him, making it public would jeopardize investigations.
This is very sad. I pray and hope the perpetrators be brought to justice.
