Student allegedly strikes Bacolod cop with brass knuckles

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — A 40-year-old police officer was injured after a high school student allegedly struck him with brass knuckles for reprimanding a group that was skateboarding on a road outside a public school in Barangay Granada on Friday.

Police Capt. Andy Ofalia, chief of Police Station 5, said officers passing through the area saw the students skateboarding during their lunch break as other students and parents crossed the street.

An officer called the group’s attention and told them to stop because skateboarding on the road posed a danger and obstructed traffic.

One of the students allegedly attacked the officer while he was talking to another student.

The students fled after the incident.

Ofalia said the officer, who holds the rank of police master sergeant, sustained injuries below his left eye and was advised to rest.

Police will pursue appropriate charges once the student has been identified, Ofalia said.

Investigators will also determine whether complaints should be filed against other students who may have been involved.

Ofalia said the school was cooperating with authorities in identifying the student and others involved.

Police did not disclose the student’s age or identity.

Under Republic Act 9344, or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act, records and proceedings involving minors accused of offenses are confidential, and information that could reveal their identities must be withheld.