The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) 7 has released the autopsy results for Fernando Abapo Prajes, a rape suspect who was found dead inside the Cebu City Jail on Sunday, April 26, 2026. According to NBI 7 medico-legal officer Dr. Rene Cam, the 37-year-old inmate, also known as Andot, died from blunt traumatic injuries.
Details of the Injuries
Dr. Cam reported that Prajes sustained several bruises on his thighs, which may have been caused by a hard object. He compared the injuries to those seen in hazing incidents, where a person is repeatedly struck with a paddle. The bruises were concentrated on the back of the legs. Cam noted that although Prajes had only been in the custody of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) for about one month, the injuries did not appear to be old, suggesting that the abuse may have occurred almost daily.
In addition to the thigh bruises, Cam found swelling in Prajes' testicles, indicating that the area may have been hit during the assault or deliberately targeted. Prajes also had a large wound on his right arm, which Cam believes was sustained while trying to shield himself from blows to his thighs.
Cause of Death
The medico-legal officer stated that Prajes lost a significant amount of blood, which was a contributing factor to his death. He also clarified that the cardiac arrest finding by a doctor at the Cebu City Medical Center was directly linked to the injuries on Prajes' thighs. Cam suggested that the attending physician may not have observed the extensive bruising on Prajes' body.
Investigation and Cooperation
The NBI 7 conducted the autopsy at the request of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) 7, which has initiated its own investigation into the incident. The BJMP 7 has expressed readiness to cooperate with the investigations being conducted by the CHR 7 and the Philippine National Police. Additionally, the BJMP is conducting a separate internal investigation.
Jail Insp. Samuel Manas, chief of BJMP 7's Community Relations Service Section, assured that the bureau will not protect any personnel or person deprived of liberty found to be involved in the maltreatment of Prajes. The case has drawn attention to conditions within the jail and the treatment of inmates.
