Broughton Island (Oct 20/03) - An RCMP officer in Qikitarjuaq was assaulted by two men while he was off duty.

Jutanie Keyookta, 21 and Patrick Kopalie, 22, were charged with assaulting a police officer.

Keyookta is also charged with breach of probation, uttering threats and resisting arrest.

Const. Chris Coles, media liaison officer for the RCMP, said they believe that alcohol was a factor in the incident.

"In most cases of assault we investigate alcohol is usually a factor," he said.

The officer didn't suffer any major injuries.

Coles said the men were charged with because of the circumstances of the incident.

"In a place like Qikitarjuaq there are only two officers, so even if you are off duty there is a chance you could be called in," he said. "In a small community people recognize you and target you as a police officer."

Keyookta was remanded in custody and will be back in court Nov. 4. Kopalie was released and will be in court Dec. 4.