Unitech says no new campus breach after weekend scare

PNG University of Technology Vice Chancellor, Professor Ora Renagi. (NBC News)

The Papua New Guinea University of Technology says there was no new security breach during a weekend incident that caused fear among students.

The university said campus security received a report at about 10.27pm on Saturday from the University Adventist Residential College [UARC] about possible criminal activity near the campus.

Security officers were sent to UARC and the Catholic Residential College. While responding, they saw a commotion outside the university boundary in a nearby community.

The university said there was no attempt to enter the campus, breach the perimeter fence or damage university property.

The incident came a week after an alleged break-in at the UARC girls' dormitory and left many students, especially female students, frightened.

Students listen attentively as UOT administration address them on Monday forllowing multiple break ins at the female dormitory in recent weeks. (NBC News)

Some male students moved towards the female residential areas to offer support. The university said this, along with uncertainty about what was happening, added to the confusion on campus.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Ora Renagi said the university had held its second security meeting in a week to respond to students' concerns.

"The management made it very important to ensure that we restore security and provide a secure study and living environment," he said.

Professor Renagi said the university was working closely with police, government and other partners to improve security.

He said every report from students was taken seriously. Security officers searched the residential colleges and surrounding areas to make sure there were no unauthorised people inside the dormitories.

The university said it had already increased security around student residences, stepped up overnight patrols, strengthened perimeter monitoring and improved coordination with the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary.

PNG University of Technology Vice Chancellor, Professor Ora Renagi addresssing students about teh step up in security of the campus. (NBC News)

Deputy Prime Minister and Lae MP John Rosso said more security measures would be introduced.

"Your safety is paramount and we'll do everything possible," he said.

Police are continuing to investigate the alleged break-in at the UARC girls' dormitory on 18 July.

One suspect has surrendered to Lae's Criminal Investigation Division, while police continue to search for the remaining alleged offenders.

The university says it will continue working with police to keep students and staff safe.