Courtesy: NCRPO
AUTHORITIES have no more information on the possible identification of the mastermind in the controversial Percy Lapid slay case when the alleged accomplice in the killing of radio broadcaster Percival Mabasa or Percy Lapid reportedly shot himself during a law enforcement operation in Batangas.
The alleged accomplice was identified as Jake Mendoza, also known as Orly, 40, who was renting a room with his family in Lipa City, Batangas.
Initial reports stated that the alleged accomplice of the gunman in the killing of broadcaster Lapid committed suicide. Mendoza had been imprisoned in 2020 for illegal drugs.
He was being served an arrest warrant when he locked himself in the bathroom and shot himself.
According to National Capital Region Police Director Jose Nartatez Jr., the suspect shot himself in front of a negotiator and his cousin.
Earlier, the suspect reportedly resisted surrender during the raid, prompting the operative to fire shots.
Reports said the suspect even held his live-in partner and child hostage.
However, he eventually went to the bathroom and shot himself.
Police said that Orly was in communication with the surrendered gunman Joel Escorial regarding the plan to kill Lapid, and his testimony would have been a significant help in advancing the case.
It is worth noting that a jail officer considered an accomplice or co-accused in the killing of Lapid, also died.
According to the PNP, there was no foul play in the death of Ricardo Zulueta, accused in the killing of Percy Lapid, and based on his medical certificate, he died due to bleeding in the head.
