A former student of the University of Surrey has been charged with attempted murder after a member of the university’s staff was shot with a crossbow on campus.

The suspect has been identified as 21-year-old Saudi Arabian national Almunthir Daqamah, a former student of the university. 

He has been charged with attempted murder, carrying an offensive weapon, two counts of possession of a bladed article, and possession of Class B drugs.

University authorities said the incident happened on Thursday at the Manor Park student village in Guildford, where a campus security officer was injured in the attack and later taken to the hospital for treatment; the officer is now in stable condition.

Chief Superintendent Jon Groenen of Surrey Police described the incident as “concerning” for both the university and the local community, adding that officers were “working at pace to establish the full circumstances of what occurred.”

According to him, there is currently “nothing to suggest this incident is terror-related,” and the police are not seeking anyone else in connection with the case. 

Mr Groenen urged the public to avoid speculation online and instead share any relevant information directly with investigators.

A spokesperson for the University of Surrey said the community was “relieved” to hear the injured staff member was stable, adding, “We wish him a full and speedy recovery.”

The university also commended its campus safety team, stating they “responded with professionalism and courage” during the incident, and expressed pride in their efforts to keep the campus safe.

The suspect remains in custody and is expected to appear before Guildford Magistrates’ Court on Friday.