The University of the South Pacific is concerned about reports of a man who allegedly offered incentives to female students at the Alafua Campus in Apia, Samoa, in exchange for an hour in a hotel room.

Reports by the Samoa Observer on Saturday said that the Ministry of Police in Samoa are hunting for an “Indian man” who allegedly approached two female students offering cash, mobile phones and job opportunities.

“The university is shocked to hear about its students being targeted for such immoral acts,” said a statement from USP’s vice-chancellor’s office.

“Upon disclosure to USP staff at Alafua Campus, the matter was immediately reported to the Samoan Ministry of Police.”

The reports surfaced when a USP staff member, Ronna Lee, took to Facebook to issue a warning after she received a report from one of the students who was approached.

Ms Lee posted: “Two of my students were approached on campus by a (stranger) tall, slim Indian man with glasses about 30-years-old+ driving a metallic silver/grey sports car.”

“This predator left before we were able to identify his car but we have reported it to the Police and will issue a warning to all students to stay alert and be cautious.”

It is rare for USP staff members to air concerns on a public forum like Facebook because incidences of sexual harassment are usually resolved in private, according to university policy.

“The university has strict and vigilant security measures, and is fully investigating this matter where, if necessary, it will liaise and collaborate with the Samoan Ministry of Police for assistance,” the statement further said.

“The university strongly urges its staff and students in all of its campuses to report suspicious behaviour/activities to the campus security and relevant senior staff in authority so that such issues can be dealt with as a matter of priority.”

Edited by Rusiate Mataika

Feedback:  sheldon.chanel@fijisun.com.fj