Australian in jail for choking guard

CEBU, Philippines - Fuente policemen arrested yesterday dawn an allegedly drunk Australian who caused a commotion and hurt a security guard at the Mango Square, Barangay Camputhaw, Cebu City.

Roberto Purcaro, who is currently residing in  Barangay Basak, LapuLapu City, allegedly created a scene at a convenience store and twisted the hand and choked a security guard who tried to stop him from hurting customers.

Security guard Edwardo Sala, 26, of Barangay Cabangcalan, Mandaue City, was rescued by customers from being beaten more by the suspect.

Initial investigation showed that Purcaro, who was believed to be drunk, went inside the store to buy some items past 2 a.m. yesterday.

Police Officer 2 Philip Plasus said that the suspect had an argument with another customer inside the store and it resulted to a fistfight.

When Sala noticed the brawl he tried to intervene and pacify the two men; but Purcaro allegedly punched him, twisted his arms and then started choking him.

Brave customers in the store rescued Sala and restrained Purcaro until the police from a nearby outpost arrived.

Purcaro was brought to Cebu City Medical Center after his arrest and tested positive of liquor use.

Sala was also brought to the same hospital because of a contusion in his neck that he suffered for his effort.

Plasus said Purcaro also failed to show them pertinent documents like his passport and an identification card and only told them his name and where he came from.

The victim on the other hand is yet to submit a medical certificate to Fuente Police to vouch his claim that he was assaulted by the suspect.

The Australian would be charged today for physical injury and for violating City Ordinance 1929 or (Drunkenness). — Bryner L. Diaz/RHM (FREEMAN)