A 29-year-old suspect is now in police custody after a violent attack that left a police officer injured in Negros Occidental. The incident, which triggered a swift province-wide manhunt, underscores the risks law enforcement faces in the line of duty.
Officer Injured While Responding to Disturbance
The attack occurred in the early hours of December 28, 2025, in Purok Lacson, Barangay Caliban, Murcia. According to reports from the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO), the victim was a 36-year-old Police Staff Sergeant assigned to the City Drug Enforcement Unit (CDEU) of the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO).
He was at a friend's residence when he was awakened by a commotion outside at approximately 4:40 a.m.. The officer intervened in an attempt to pacify the situation. However, the suspect, identified by the alias "Roian", allegedly drew a bladed weapon and stabbed the policeman multiple times before fleeing the scene.
Swift Manhunt Leads to Arrest
The injured officer sustained multiple stab wounds but is now reported to be in stable condition. Colonel Dennis Wenceslao, the director of NOCPPO, immediately ordered a pursuit operation to apprehend the attacker.
A joint manhunt was launched involving personnel from the Murcia Municipal Police Station, NOCPPO Mobile Force Company, Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region Intelligence Division, NOCPPO Intelligence Unit, and the BCPO. Their efforts culminated in the successful arrest of the suspect later the same day, around 4 p.m., in Purok Mabuhay, Barangay Pandanon, Don Salvador Benedicto.
Evidence Recovered, Investigation Ongoing
Police investigators recovered a bladed weapon from the initial crime scene in Murcia. Authorities confirmed that the victim's issued firearm was properly accounted for and has been turned over to the case investigator for safekeeping and procedural handling.
In a statement, Colonel Wenceslao assured the public that the incident was swiftly and professionally handled. He emphasized that the police response demonstrates their firm commitment to protecting their personnel and maintaining peace and order within the community.
