Probe on rape suspect’s death gets underway

Local

THE Bureau of Jail Management and Penology-Central Visayas (BJMP-7) has started its investigation into the death of a rape suspect inside the Cebu City Jail.

Jail Insp. Samuel Manas, chief of the Community Relations Service Section of BJMP-7, said they are still awaiting the result of the investigation aimed at determining the cause of death, Fernando Abapo Prajes, 37.

Prajes was accused of raping an 11-year-old girl in Barangay Kalunasan, Cebu City. He was committed to the Cebu City Jail on Marso 25, 2026 after he was charged with statutory rape.

Prajes’ family raised suspicion that the inmate was mauled due to the injuries on his legs.

Prajes passed out around 1 p.m. on Sunday, April 26. He was brought to Cebu City Medical Center where he was declared dead.

“Let us wait for the result of the investigation process. It would be difficult for us to preempt the investigation,” said Manas.

Manas said the BJMP-7 will take necessary action if proven that fellow inmates or jail personnel were responsible for Prajes’ death.

Manas said that the BJMP is following a high standard in handling persons deprived of liberty.

The official assured that the result of the investigation will be publicized.

“We have zero tolerance for violence committed against our PDL. Whether it may be a PDL who did it or BJMP personnel, those responsible will be held accountable,” said Manas.

Manas said the BJMP-7 is ready to coordinate with the Philippine National Police and Commission on Human Rights in the conduct of the investigation.(CDB)