The Hardys are off to college, and they're about to get an education in deception, kidnapping, and murder! The boys already have an advanced degree in criminal investigations, so they've come to the right place. Frank and Joe are helping their friend Richie move into a dorm when Richie's roommate, Eli, is snatched by a couple of pistol-wielding thugs.

Passions on campus are at fever pitch. Eco-terrorists have vowed to stop construction of a chemical incinerator. Meanwhile, a visiting American diplomat, based in the war-torn country of Gabiz, has been targeted for assassination. Whoever's behind Eli's kidnapping, they're deadly serious...and the Hardys must take some serious action to bring him back alive!