By Lawrence Odoom/Phalonzy
The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has moved to dispel what it calls misleading social media narratives surrounding an alleged rape and extortion case involving two students, clarifying key facts about the incident.
University management categorically stated that the alleged crime did not occur within KNUST’s precincts in Kumasi but in the adjoining community of Ayeduase, placing it beyond the remit of the institution’s internal security apparatus.
“The alleged incidents did not occur on the KNUST campus. They took place off campus in the nearby community of Ayeduase and therefore fall outside the jurisdiction of the University’s internal security operations,” the statement clarified.
KNUST further repudiated claims connecting the suspect to its official security services, confirming that the individual has no affiliation with the university.
“The suspect is not a member of KNUST’s Security Services. The individual is a private security guard engaged by the Ayeduase Roman Catholic Primary School and has no affiliation whatsoever with the University’s official security system,” it noted.
Management confirmed that the case has been formally reported to the District Police Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) in Oduom, Kumasi, and is currently under active investigation. The suspect remains in custody while judicial proceedings are underway.
“The suspect remains in police custody, and the matter is currently before the court,” the statement said.
The university disclosed that comprehensive support is being extended to the victims, with psychological counselling and medical assistance already initiated.
“The victims have received initial counselling support from DOVVSU. In addition, the University’s Counselling Centre has initiated contact with the victims to offer further psychological and medical support,” it stated.
KNUST reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to student safety and welfare, urging the public and media to exercise diligence and verify facts prior to publication to avert the propagation of misinformation.
“KNUST remains firmly committed to the safety, welfare, and well-being of its students and will continue to collaborate with relevant authorities to ensure justice is served,” the statement added.