Nelson Mandela University has confirmed that a student had been raped and another stabbed inside a computer laboratory on its Second Avenue campus on Monday night.
NMU management will be meeting on Tuesday morning to discuss the incident.
University spokesperson, Zandile Mbabela, said they were shocked and saddened by the incident.
"Information at hand is that two students were attacked in computer labs on Second Avenue Campus, one was stabbed in the back and the other raped. Both students received the initial medical attention, with counselling and other support mechanisms in place for the rape victim," said Mbabela.
Meanwhile, police spokesperson, Colonel Priscilla Naidu, said after the suspect allegedly raped the 25-year-old student, he forced the two women to help him carry computer equipment out of the building.
She said the suspect also ordered the women to pass the stolen goods to him over a fence as he made his escape.
Naidu said the man fled the scene with the student's cellphones and wallets.
The hunt of the attacker is underway.
The Cluster Commander for Mount Road Cluster, Major General Siganga, has expressed her shock at the incident especially the fact that it had taken place at a learning institution and while the students were studying.
"The case is being investigated by the Family Violence Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit and we are urging the communities to work with us in breaking the cycle of sexual abuse on women. Anyone who can offer any assistance in tracing the suspect is urgently asked to contact the police,” she said.
Siganga said SAPS would also meet with relevant role players on Tuesday to find a solution in improving security for students.
Student organisation Sasco has condemned the attack. In a WhatsApp message the student organisation said NMU was not taking student safety seriously.
Sasco said numerous calls had been made to University management regarding improved security at the Second Avenue campus which it says is isolated and an easy target for criminals.
(Image: Supplied)
