BJMP, DOJ order probe on 'suicide' of Ortega slay witness

MANILA, Philippines - The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology on Thursday ordered a full investigation into the death of a suspect-turned-state witness in the murder of environmentalist Gerry Ortega.

Dennis Aranas was found hanging inside his cell at the Quezon Dsitrict Jail in Lucena City on Tuesday.

Chief Supt. Serafin Barretto, BJMP Region IV director, said jail warden Supt. Anne Espinosa has also sought the police and Commission on Human Rights' investigation on Aranas's death.

Reports said Aranas was found hanging with a strap of a shoulder bag inside his cell at around 10 a.m. on Tuesday. However, Aranas's death was only reported seven hours after discovery.

Aranas's relatives sought an autopsy as the victim allegedly had bruises in the hands.

Aranas is the second witness in the Ortega murder who died following the death of Valentin Lecias at a hospital in Palawan in September.

Lecias reportedly bought the gun that was used in the January 11 murder of Ortega in Palawan.

Aranas, meanwhile, was the alleged lookout in the Ortega slay.

Ortega was shot in front of a used clothing store in Puerto Princesa, Palawan  allegedly by Marlon Recamata, who is not under arrest.

Former Palawan Gov. Joel Reyes and his brother Coron Mayor Mario Reyes are suspected of being behind the murder. They denied knowledge, but the brothers remain in hiding.

Meanwhile, Justice Secretary Leila M. de Lima said she will also order an investigation into Aranas's death.