1 aug 2013
On 22 July 2013, B'Tselem appealed to the Military Advocate General (MAG) against the decision to close the investigation into the killing of Ibrahim Sarhan without serving any indictments. The MAG corps notified B'Tselem that the "investigation file was closed after no evidence was found, at the level required in criminal matters, for the commission of an offense and for necessary measures". The appeal was filed after a review of the investigation file revealed that there was solid evidence that the fatal shooting of Sarhan was carried out in violation of the open-fire regulations and without any justification. A breach of open-fire regulations constitutes a criminal offense. When the regulations have been clearly violated, such as in this case, criminal sanctions must be taken and the soldier who fired the shots must be charged and tried.
Ibrahim Sarhan was shot and killed on 13 July 2011, at around 5:00 A.M. during a military operation for arresting wanted individuals in Al-Far'ah Refugee Camp, Tubas District. Sarhan was not one of the wanted individuals. According to testimonies in B'Tselem's possession and the investigative materials in the file, Sarhan came across a force numbering a few soldiers while walking through the camp. He put his hands up as ordered by one of the soldiers, but then turned around and fled the area. The soldier began a suspect apprehension procedure: he called on Sarhan to stop, fired one shot in the air, and then shot at Sarhan, hitting his thigh. Sarhan managed to flee and hid in a nearby home, but was later found by the soldiers who had gone searching for him. The soldiers gave Sarhan primary medical care, and because of his serious condition, decided to evacuate him in a Palestinian ambulance that had arrived at the scene. Sarhan died of his wounds en route to the hospital.
The soldier who shot Sarhan justified his shooting on three counts: 1) Sarhan resembled the description he had been given of one of the wanted individuals; 2) In his opinion, Sarhan fit the definition of a "fleer", a category of open-fire regulations during an arrest operation; and 3) Sarhan appeared to have committed a dangerous crime simply by virtue of his behavior. According to the soldier "when a local runs like that, he has something to lose", and if he did not have something to lose, "He would try to prove his innocence. He would talk. Heed the 'waqef' [stop, in Arabic] call and answer our questions". B'Tselem stated in its appeal that none of these reasons could justify the shooting: 1) The alleged physical resemblance was based on a very general description of the wanted person; 2) The investigation gave to a clear definition of a "fleer", which Sarhan did not meet; 3) Most importantly, open-fire regulations permit shooting at a person in cases of mortal danger, or in arresting a person suspected of a dangerous crime. However, when Sarhan was shot, none of the soldiers were in any kind of danger, and Sarhan was not suspected of any offense, certainly not a dangerous crime. The open-fire regulations stress that both disobeying an order to stop and fleeing do not, in and of themselves, suggest involvement in a dangerous crime.
Open-fire regulations do leave a great deal up to the soldiers' discretion, but not on every matter. Where the regulations make a clear determination, such as the prohibition on shooting people who are only suspected of fleeing, there is no room for making a personal choice. The purpose of open-fire regulations is to establish safety precautions and reduce the inherent risk involved in using weapons, particularly the risk of harming innocents and causing disproportionate harm.
Conducting an investigation simultaneously with an operational inquiry:
Ibrahim Sarhan was the first Palestinian killed by the military in the West Bank after the new investigation policy was introduced. According to this policy, the MAG Corps orders an immediate Military Police investigation in every case in which a Palestinian who did not participate in hostilities was killed in the West Bank.
The investigation file indicates that the MAG corps did instruct the Military Police to open an investigation on the day of the incident, but that despite the latter's efforts, operational military officials as well as high ranking officials of the Military Police Investigation Unit prevented the investigators from obtaining the soldiers' testimonies for seven days from the day of the incident place, until after the operational inquiry was concluded on July 19, 2011.
The fact that the operational inquiry was held before testimonies were collected not only delayed the criminal investigation, but also influenced the testimonies the soldiers gave during this investigation. In their testimonies, soldiers who participate in an operational inquiry are not allowed to divulge information they discover through the inquiry. When giving testimony, the soldiers involved in this incident refrained from answering the investigators' questions because they could not recall whether they knew a specific detail prior to the operational inquiry or not. This impeded the effectiveness of the investigation. Another issue that arose was misuse of this provision, for example, when the company commander refused, during his testimony, to say which soldier had fired the shots and provide the names of the other soldiers in the force. It is quite a stretch to accept his account that despite his role in the operation, he learned which soldiers made up which force only during the operational inquiry. The fact that the Military Police investigator who took his statement accepted this argument is perplexing. In addition to these issues, the Military Police failed to take any other investigative actions while the operational inquiry was going on, such as confiscating the weapons of the persons involved in the incident. After the fact, it was found that there was no dispute regarding the identity of the shooter, but this could not have been known in advance.
Unlike the situation in the past, operational inquiries no longer form the basis for deciding whether or not to launch a criminal investigation into incidents in which a Palestinian who is not taking part in hostilities is killed in the West Bank. However, the fact that such inquiries still have precedence over the criminal investigation is very troubling. The nature of the inquiry, in which all those involved give their account of the incident together, enables these individuals to – deliberately or not – coordinate their versions of the events. Moreover, the individuals who conduct the operational inquiry are authorized to take investigative actions such as collecting evidence from the scene, processing weapons and more, which could compromise the integrity of the evidence. In this situation, the inquiry does more than just jeopardize the integrity of the evidence. It effectively delays the investigation, undercuts its effectiveness and denies the investigators access to important information immediately after the incident, which is the window of time most crucial for collecting evidence.
Ibrahim Sarhan was shot and killed on 13 July 2011, at around 5:00 A.M. during a military operation for arresting wanted individuals in Al-Far'ah Refugee Camp, Tubas District. Sarhan was not one of the wanted individuals. According to testimonies in B'Tselem's possession and the investigative materials in the file, Sarhan came across a force numbering a few soldiers while walking through the camp. He put his hands up as ordered by one of the soldiers, but then turned around and fled the area. The soldier began a suspect apprehension procedure: he called on Sarhan to stop, fired one shot in the air, and then shot at Sarhan, hitting his thigh. Sarhan managed to flee and hid in a nearby home, but was later found by the soldiers who had gone searching for him. The soldiers gave Sarhan primary medical care, and because of his serious condition, decided to evacuate him in a Palestinian ambulance that had arrived at the scene. Sarhan died of his wounds en route to the hospital.
The soldier who shot Sarhan justified his shooting on three counts: 1) Sarhan resembled the description he had been given of one of the wanted individuals; 2) In his opinion, Sarhan fit the definition of a "fleer", a category of open-fire regulations during an arrest operation; and 3) Sarhan appeared to have committed a dangerous crime simply by virtue of his behavior. According to the soldier "when a local runs like that, he has something to lose", and if he did not have something to lose, "He would try to prove his innocence. He would talk. Heed the 'waqef' [stop, in Arabic] call and answer our questions". B'Tselem stated in its appeal that none of these reasons could justify the shooting: 1) The alleged physical resemblance was based on a very general description of the wanted person; 2) The investigation gave to a clear definition of a "fleer", which Sarhan did not meet; 3) Most importantly, open-fire regulations permit shooting at a person in cases of mortal danger, or in arresting a person suspected of a dangerous crime. However, when Sarhan was shot, none of the soldiers were in any kind of danger, and Sarhan was not suspected of any offense, certainly not a dangerous crime. The open-fire regulations stress that both disobeying an order to stop and fleeing do not, in and of themselves, suggest involvement in a dangerous crime.
Open-fire regulations do leave a great deal up to the soldiers' discretion, but not on every matter. Where the regulations make a clear determination, such as the prohibition on shooting people who are only suspected of fleeing, there is no room for making a personal choice. The purpose of open-fire regulations is to establish safety precautions and reduce the inherent risk involved in using weapons, particularly the risk of harming innocents and causing disproportionate harm.
Conducting an investigation simultaneously with an operational inquiry:
Ibrahim Sarhan was the first Palestinian killed by the military in the West Bank after the new investigation policy was introduced. According to this policy, the MAG Corps orders an immediate Military Police investigation in every case in which a Palestinian who did not participate in hostilities was killed in the West Bank.
The investigation file indicates that the MAG corps did instruct the Military Police to open an investigation on the day of the incident, but that despite the latter's efforts, operational military officials as well as high ranking officials of the Military Police Investigation Unit prevented the investigators from obtaining the soldiers' testimonies for seven days from the day of the incident place, until after the operational inquiry was concluded on July 19, 2011.
The fact that the operational inquiry was held before testimonies were collected not only delayed the criminal investigation, but also influenced the testimonies the soldiers gave during this investigation. In their testimonies, soldiers who participate in an operational inquiry are not allowed to divulge information they discover through the inquiry. When giving testimony, the soldiers involved in this incident refrained from answering the investigators' questions because they could not recall whether they knew a specific detail prior to the operational inquiry or not. This impeded the effectiveness of the investigation. Another issue that arose was misuse of this provision, for example, when the company commander refused, during his testimony, to say which soldier had fired the shots and provide the names of the other soldiers in the force. It is quite a stretch to accept his account that despite his role in the operation, he learned which soldiers made up which force only during the operational inquiry. The fact that the Military Police investigator who took his statement accepted this argument is perplexing. In addition to these issues, the Military Police failed to take any other investigative actions while the operational inquiry was going on, such as confiscating the weapons of the persons involved in the incident. After the fact, it was found that there was no dispute regarding the identity of the shooter, but this could not have been known in advance.
Unlike the situation in the past, operational inquiries no longer form the basis for deciding whether or not to launch a criminal investigation into incidents in which a Palestinian who is not taking part in hostilities is killed in the West Bank. However, the fact that such inquiries still have precedence over the criminal investigation is very troubling. The nature of the inquiry, in which all those involved give their account of the incident together, enables these individuals to – deliberately or not – coordinate their versions of the events. Moreover, the individuals who conduct the operational inquiry are authorized to take investigative actions such as collecting evidence from the scene, processing weapons and more, which could compromise the integrity of the evidence. In this situation, the inquiry does more than just jeopardize the integrity of the evidence. It effectively delays the investigation, undercuts its effectiveness and denies the investigators access to important information immediately after the incident, which is the window of time most crucial for collecting evidence.
31 july 2013
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Israel's Channel 10 published a video on Wednesday featuring an Israeli soldier, dressed in civilian attire, assaulting a group of Palestinian workers in the Jordan Valley without justification.
This video was published four years after the incident took place in April 2009. It reveals a group of workers standing at the main entrance of a settlement near the Palestinian village of Fasayel, in the southern Jordan Valley, waiting waiting to be picked up and taken to their workplace. The video shows an Israeli soildier stepping out of a car, taking out his M16 pistol and assaulting the workers for no reason. The soldier severely beat three unarmed Palestinian workers. |
15 days later, the workers filed a lawsuit against the soldier and the Magistrate's Court in Jerusalem. Although a surveillance camera, located at the entrance of the settlement, caught the brutality of the attack on video, the court justified the soldier's actions under the precedence that he had difficult experiences during his service in the West Bank. He was only sentenced to two months in prison.
Beit Shemesh: Haredi allegedly asks woman to move to back of bus
A haredi man allegedly demanded that a woman move to the back of the bus he was riding in Beit Shemesh on Wednesday. Police on the scene apprehended the man along with another haredi woman who interfered with his detainment.
The bus driver continued his route after the two were detained.
A haredi man allegedly demanded that a woman move to the back of the bus he was riding in Beit Shemesh on Wednesday. Police on the scene apprehended the man along with another haredi woman who interfered with his detainment.
The bus driver continued his route after the two were detained.
Indictment: Elad resident torched garbage bins in city
An indictment was filed with the Petah Tikva Magistrates' Court against a 37-year-old resident of Elad who is suspected of setting fire to garbage bins throughout the city.
The request to keep him in custody until the conclusion of legal proceedings said he was a "dangerous man" and that it was a "miracle" his actions did not lead to the loss of life.
An indictment was filed with the Petah Tikva Magistrates' Court against a 37-year-old resident of Elad who is suspected of setting fire to garbage bins throughout the city.
The request to keep him in custody until the conclusion of legal proceedings said he was a "dangerous man" and that it was a "miracle" his actions did not lead to the loss of life.
Bus stop where attack took place
Two 15 year olds punch, kick adult who asked them to be careful while horsing around
Two 15-year-old boys severely beat a man in his 30s who asked them to be careful while they were horsing around near a bus stop on Allenby Street in Tel Aviv Tuesday night.
The victim, who was waiting for a bus with his girlfriend, was punched and kicked by the teenagers, who were arrested.
The incident took place at around 11 pm when the man noticed a group of teenagers hitting each other, apparently in jest, and asked them to be careful. One of the teens turned to him and said, "What's your problem?" and punched him in the face. The man fell to the ground, and the teenager, joined by one of his friends, continued to punch and kick him. Luckily, a man who drove by stopped and rescued the man from the teenagers.
Police officers who were alerted to the scene by passersby arrested the teens, who are residents of Beit Shemesh.
The summer vacation months usually see a rise in the number of crimes perpetrated by teenagers. Last week, four 15 year olds from a community near Modi'in were detained for burning three cats to death. The teens said they acted out of boredom.
related: Police: Teens burned cats 'out of boredom'
Two 15 year olds punch, kick adult who asked them to be careful while horsing around
Two 15-year-old boys severely beat a man in his 30s who asked them to be careful while they were horsing around near a bus stop on Allenby Street in Tel Aviv Tuesday night.
The victim, who was waiting for a bus with his girlfriend, was punched and kicked by the teenagers, who were arrested.
The incident took place at around 11 pm when the man noticed a group of teenagers hitting each other, apparently in jest, and asked them to be careful. One of the teens turned to him and said, "What's your problem?" and punched him in the face. The man fell to the ground, and the teenager, joined by one of his friends, continued to punch and kick him. Luckily, a man who drove by stopped and rescued the man from the teenagers.
Police officers who were alerted to the scene by passersby arrested the teens, who are residents of Beit Shemesh.
The summer vacation months usually see a rise in the number of crimes perpetrated by teenagers. Last week, four 15 year olds from a community near Modi'in were detained for burning three cats to death. The teens said they acted out of boredom.
related: Police: Teens burned cats 'out of boredom'
30 july 2013
The Israeli Prison Service is considering granting leave to former president, Moshe Katsav.
Katsav is serving a seven-year prison sentence for rape and sexual harassment, and his leave is considered despite the fact he has not expressed remorse.
Katsav is serving a seven-year prison sentence for rape and sexual harassment, and his leave is considered despite the fact he has not expressed remorse.
Man allegedly tries to poison ex-wife's food, caught by daughter
A 44-year-old man from Ofakim was arrested on Monday for allegedly attempting to inject poison in his ex-wife's food. According to suspicions, he arrived at her home and planned to inject the poison, assuming he was alone. But his daughter, who was at the house, saw him, allegedly prompting his rapid escape. He was later arrested.
The Beersheba Magistrate's Court remanded him by an additional two days.
A 44-year-old man from Ofakim was arrested on Monday for allegedly attempting to inject poison in his ex-wife's food. According to suspicions, he arrived at her home and planned to inject the poison, assuming he was alone. But his daughter, who was at the house, saw him, allegedly prompting his rapid escape. He was later arrested.
The Beersheba Magistrate's Court remanded him by an additional two days.
Parents allegedly molest child, found wandering alone
Two parents from Pardes Hannah were arrested for allegedly sexually molesting their two-year-old daughter. The investigation of the case began earlier on July, after the child was found wandering alone around the city.
The parents were arrested for an interrogation, after which the mother was released and the father remanded for further questioning. The couple's lawyer said they deny the allegations.
Two parents from Pardes Hannah were arrested for allegedly sexually molesting their two-year-old daughter. The investigation of the case began earlier on July, after the child was found wandering alone around the city.
The parents were arrested for an interrogation, after which the mother was released and the father remanded for further questioning. The couple's lawyer said they deny the allegations.
Netanya resident suspected of setting 2 synagogues on fire
A 23-year-old Netanya resident was arrested on suspicion of setting two of the city's synagogues on fire. The fires caused damages to prayer books in both synagogues.
A 23-year-old Netanya resident was arrested on suspicion of setting two of the city's synagogues on fire. The fires caused damages to prayer books in both synagogues.
Suspicion: Young woman stabbed to death by partner in Tel Aviv
A woman in her twenties was stabbed and killed in Tel Aviv. It is suspected that her boyfriend, who was also found with stab wounds on site, stabbed her. The suspect was taken in serious condition to Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center. The circumstances behind the event are still unclear.
A woman in her twenties was stabbed and killed in Tel Aviv. It is suspected that her boyfriend, who was also found with stab wounds on site, stabbed her. The suspect was taken in serious condition to Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center. The circumstances behind the event are still unclear.
Team at Barzilai Medical Center in Ashkelon diagnoses two fractures in one-year-old's leg, informs police; arrested mother denies, says she fell while holding baby
Police arrested a 25-year-old Kiryat Gat resident under suspicion of assaulting her one-year-old daughter. Last Thursday, the toddler was brought to Barzilai Medical Center in Ashkelon, where staff found she was suffering from two fractures in her femur bone.
The mother told the doctors that the injury was the result of a fall, but police decided to take her to custody. The mother's remand was been extended by three additional days.
The late hour in which the mother brought her daughter to the hospital raised doctors' suspicion and as per working orders they reported the case to the police.
The mother continued to deny the abuse accusations to Kiryat Gat police who investigated the case at the hospital earlier in the week.
The mother claimed that she fell while she was holding the toddler. The baby's grandfather is with her in the hospital while the mother is detained. The Social Services and Welfare Ministry launched an investigation into the case.
Police arrested a 25-year-old Kiryat Gat resident under suspicion of assaulting her one-year-old daughter. Last Thursday, the toddler was brought to Barzilai Medical Center in Ashkelon, where staff found she was suffering from two fractures in her femur bone.
The mother told the doctors that the injury was the result of a fall, but police decided to take her to custody. The mother's remand was been extended by three additional days.
The late hour in which the mother brought her daughter to the hospital raised doctors' suspicion and as per working orders they reported the case to the police.
The mother continued to deny the abuse accusations to Kiryat Gat police who investigated the case at the hospital earlier in the week.
The mother claimed that she fell while she was holding the toddler. The baby's grandfather is with her in the hospital while the mother is detained. The Social Services and Welfare Ministry launched an investigation into the case.
According to Indictment, Kfar Saba resident beat his wife for taking picture of their baby with balloon whose color he disliked. 'I aimed at her legs, hands and face so as not to hurt the fetus,' defendant says
A 31-year-old Kfar Saba resident was indicted on Tuesday for assaulting his pregnant wife. According to the indictment, the victim took a picture of the couple's four-month-old baby with a green balloon, against the suspect's wishes. The suspect reacted violently and locked his spouse. The indictment filed with the Petah Tikva Magistrate's Court reveals the woman had been subjected to abuse by her husband throughout her pregnancy. Among other things, it is claimed that the defendant complained about a picture his wife took of their child, in which a green balloon also appeared.
The defendant demanded the wife apologize, reminding her that the color of the balloon is the same color as the car her former boyfriend had bought her. She asked his forgiveness, yet he still hit her. In addition, the defendant attacked and bruised his wife while visiting both his and her parents. In another incident, he beat her in public after she attempted to break up with him. It is further claimed that at some point, the woman ran away from home while the suspect chased her and eventually caught her and forcefully brought her back to their home.
According to the indictment, the defendant locked his wife up in their home and left her without a key, phone or money for an entire year. The victim claimed he demanded she ask his permission before any action, and took away her ID card. She added the she feared complaining and only a report made by a third party led to an investigation of the events. The defendant initially denied the allegations, but later confessed and explained that "when we reached these situations I tried my best to not hurt her stomach and fetus. I aimed at her legs, hands and face."
A 31-year-old Kfar Saba resident was indicted on Tuesday for assaulting his pregnant wife. According to the indictment, the victim took a picture of the couple's four-month-old baby with a green balloon, against the suspect's wishes. The suspect reacted violently and locked his spouse. The indictment filed with the Petah Tikva Magistrate's Court reveals the woman had been subjected to abuse by her husband throughout her pregnancy. Among other things, it is claimed that the defendant complained about a picture his wife took of their child, in which a green balloon also appeared.
The defendant demanded the wife apologize, reminding her that the color of the balloon is the same color as the car her former boyfriend had bought her. She asked his forgiveness, yet he still hit her. In addition, the defendant attacked and bruised his wife while visiting both his and her parents. In another incident, he beat her in public after she attempted to break up with him. It is further claimed that at some point, the woman ran away from home while the suspect chased her and eventually caught her and forcefully brought her back to their home.
According to the indictment, the defendant locked his wife up in their home and left her without a key, phone or money for an entire year. The victim claimed he demanded she ask his permission before any action, and took away her ID card. She added the she feared complaining and only a report made by a third party led to an investigation of the events. The defendant initially denied the allegations, but later confessed and explained that "when we reached these situations I tried my best to not hurt her stomach and fetus. I aimed at her legs, hands and face."
29 july 2013
Eden Natan Zada
Four of seven Shfaram residents charged with murder of IDF soldier who killed four in 2005 convicted of attempted manslaughter, three convicted of aggravated assault and one acquitted
The Haifa District on Monday convicted four out of seven defendants tried for the lynching of Eden Natan Zada of attempted manslaughter. Two were convicted of aggravated battery and one defendant was acquitted.
"No self-respecting society will tolerate lynching even if the person committed a heinous crime," the verdict read. "Revenge is for God; punishment is for the judiciary."
"Our hearts are with the bereaved families who have lost their loved ones because of this hateful murderous crime," judge Ilan Schiff said. "We find it hard to understand how a person decides to take lives and cause such suffering to families of innocents."
Four of seven Shfaram residents charged with murder of IDF soldier who killed four in 2005 convicted of attempted manslaughter, three convicted of aggravated assault and one acquitted
The Haifa District on Monday convicted four out of seven defendants tried for the lynching of Eden Natan Zada of attempted manslaughter. Two were convicted of aggravated battery and one defendant was acquitted.
"No self-respecting society will tolerate lynching even if the person committed a heinous crime," the verdict read. "Revenge is for God; punishment is for the judiciary."
"Our hearts are with the bereaved families who have lost their loved ones because of this hateful murderous crime," judge Ilan Schiff said. "We find it hard to understand how a person decides to take lives and cause such suffering to families of innocents."
Defendants in court
Natan Zada was beaten to death by a Shfaram mob after going on a murderous rampage in the northern Arab town, killing four people and wounded 22 others aboard a city bus.
Hundreds of people gathered outside the court in protest, expressing solidarity with the defendants. "The case was handled with anti-Arab racism," said Jamil Safouri, one of the defendants. "We are ordinary people and now I'm starting to think I am a murderer."
On August 4, 2005, Natan Zada, an IDF soldier who had gone AWOL, opened fire at a bus in Shfaram, killing four people. He was then stopped by some of the passengers. Police officers who tried to remove him from the scene were unable to stop an angry mob from beating him to death. "We can't forget this act of terror," said the mother of sisters Dina and Hazar Turki, who were killed in the attack. "The State and the court should have taken our feelings under consideration and forgo a conviction."
In June 2009, indictments were filed against seven Shfaram residents for attempted murder, aggravated assault on a police officer, obstruction of justice and rioting.
According to the indictment, each of the defendants assaulted the soldier, who was laying on the floor, with rocks and iron rods.
Hundreds of Shfaram residents called for an acquittal, gathering in an encampment in the city.
"The atmosphere here is very tense," said Mayor Nahed Khazam. "What happened in Shfaram, as then Prime Minister Ariel Sharon put it, was an act of terror."
Attorney Yaakov Menkin, who represents the Zada family said, "The family is completely heartbroken. They are hurt by the state that did not recognize their son as a fallen soldier, and for the mistreatment of the criminal case. This is a murder case but the charges were for minor offences. This act was recorded on footage, and everyone knows that the victim was alive but never made it to the police station alive."
"The defendants should have been convicted of murder. There was sufficient evidence to convict all suspects. It's inconceivable that an Israeli citizen, a soldier in uniform, is murdered, and the case ends with attempted manslaughter."
The attorney further added: "We hope the prosecution will appeal, the family was hoping for justice, and justice was not served."
The other side was equally displeased. Attorney Maher Talahmi, representing one of the defendants said, "We didn’t expect a conviction on such serious offences. The circumstances were clear, it was a terror attack."
MK Mohammad Barakeh (Hadash) said, "We do not accept the verdict. This is convicting the victim. Had they been Jews they would have gotten a citation."
Natan Zada was beaten to death by a Shfaram mob after going on a murderous rampage in the northern Arab town, killing four people and wounded 22 others aboard a city bus.
Hundreds of people gathered outside the court in protest, expressing solidarity with the defendants. "The case was handled with anti-Arab racism," said Jamil Safouri, one of the defendants. "We are ordinary people and now I'm starting to think I am a murderer."
On August 4, 2005, Natan Zada, an IDF soldier who had gone AWOL, opened fire at a bus in Shfaram, killing four people. He was then stopped by some of the passengers. Police officers who tried to remove him from the scene were unable to stop an angry mob from beating him to death. "We can't forget this act of terror," said the mother of sisters Dina and Hazar Turki, who were killed in the attack. "The State and the court should have taken our feelings under consideration and forgo a conviction."
In June 2009, indictments were filed against seven Shfaram residents for attempted murder, aggravated assault on a police officer, obstruction of justice and rioting.
According to the indictment, each of the defendants assaulted the soldier, who was laying on the floor, with rocks and iron rods.
Hundreds of Shfaram residents called for an acquittal, gathering in an encampment in the city.
"The atmosphere here is very tense," said Mayor Nahed Khazam. "What happened in Shfaram, as then Prime Minister Ariel Sharon put it, was an act of terror."
Attorney Yaakov Menkin, who represents the Zada family said, "The family is completely heartbroken. They are hurt by the state that did not recognize their son as a fallen soldier, and for the mistreatment of the criminal case. This is a murder case but the charges were for minor offences. This act was recorded on footage, and everyone knows that the victim was alive but never made it to the police station alive."
"The defendants should have been convicted of murder. There was sufficient evidence to convict all suspects. It's inconceivable that an Israeli citizen, a soldier in uniform, is murdered, and the case ends with attempted manslaughter."
The attorney further added: "We hope the prosecution will appeal, the family was hoping for justice, and justice was not served."
The other side was equally displeased. Attorney Maher Talahmi, representing one of the defendants said, "We didn’t expect a conviction on such serious offences. The circumstances were clear, it was a terror attack."
MK Mohammad Barakeh (Hadash) said, "We do not accept the verdict. This is convicting the victim. Had they been Jews they would have gotten a citation."
28 july 2013
Year in prison for man who set Arab house afire
The Beersheba District Court sentenced Yehoshua Sofer, 24, to one year in prison for setting fire to the home of an Arab family in the city two years ago. According to the indictment, Sofer threw a Molotov cocktail toward the house’s fence and set it afire.
The defendant explained that he was raised in religious society which taught him to hate minorities and encouraged violence against them. The court also sentenced him to pay compensation to family in the amount of NIS 1,500.
The Beersheba District Court sentenced Yehoshua Sofer, 24, to one year in prison for setting fire to the home of an Arab family in the city two years ago. According to the indictment, Sofer threw a Molotov cocktail toward the house’s fence and set it afire.
The defendant explained that he was raised in religious society which taught him to hate minorities and encouraged violence against them. The court also sentenced him to pay compensation to family in the amount of NIS 1,500.
4 arrested on suspicion of firing at Nature Reserves Authority vehicle
Four people were arrested on suspicion of shooting at the car of a Nature Reserves warden at the Nahal Tavor park. No one was injured. The warden noticed the suspects Saturday night near Kibbutz Gazit, and when he went to check on them, the four men fled while shooting at the tires of his vehicle. Tiberias Police and the Northern Central Unit are investigating the case.
Four people were arrested on suspicion of shooting at the car of a Nature Reserves warden at the Nahal Tavor park. No one was injured. The warden noticed the suspects Saturday night near Kibbutz Gazit, and when he went to check on them, the four men fled while shooting at the tires of his vehicle. Tiberias Police and the Northern Central Unit are investigating the case.
26 july 2013
Bat Yam: 22 year old stabbed, apparently in fight
A 22-year-old man sustained severe stab wounds, apparently during a brawl on Bat Yam's Barzilai Street. Police have arrested four suspects.
A 22-year-old man sustained severe stab wounds, apparently during a brawl on Bat Yam's Barzilai Street. Police have arrested four suspects.
25 july 2013
Jerusalem: Youths suspected of burning Palestinian's fields
Two 20-year-old youths from Jerusalem were arrested by the Police's Nationalistically Motivated Crimes Unit on suspicion of burning fields belonging to Palestinians, causing a major fire near the outpost of Ramat Migron in the Binyamin region.
The two apparently fled the scene at the time, and were later apprehended only laterby the police who were conducting searches.
Two 20-year-old youths from Jerusalem were arrested by the Police's Nationalistically Motivated Crimes Unit on suspicion of burning fields belonging to Palestinians, causing a major fire near the outpost of Ramat Migron in the Binyamin region.
The two apparently fled the scene at the time, and were later apprehended only laterby the police who were conducting searches.
24 july 2013
Jerusalem double murder suspect remanded
The Jerusalem Magistrate's Court remanded by an additional eight days the arrest of the suspect in the murder of Attorney Natan Gorno and his daughter Yamit in the Clal Center in Jerusalem.
In her decision, the judge ordered a psychiatric evaluation of the suspect.
The Jerusalem Magistrate's Court remanded by an additional eight days the arrest of the suspect in the murder of Attorney Natan Gorno and his daughter Yamit in the Clal Center in Jerusalem.
In her decision, the judge ordered a psychiatric evaluation of the suspect.
Border Guard officer indicted for threatening prostitute with knife
The Police Investigations Unit has filed an indictment against a Border Guard officer on regular duty who used a knife to threaten a prostitute.
The officer demanded that she have sex with his friend and upon her refusal pulled out a knife and demanded his money back.
The Police Investigations Unit has filed an indictment against a Border Guard officer on regular duty who used a knife to threaten a prostitute.
The officer demanded that she have sex with his friend and upon her refusal pulled out a knife and demanded his money back.
23 july 2013
Prosecution examines evidence gathered against Nochi Dankner
Israel Securities Authoriry (ISA) has completed its investigation of businessman Noch Dankner and other officials on suspicion of share and option offering fraud committed by IDB last year. The investigation details were transferred to the examination of Tel Aviv Prosecutor's Office. The open investigation began last November following an inquiry by the ISA's Investigations, Intelligence and Market Surveillance Department.
Israel Securities Authoriry (ISA) has completed its investigation of businessman Noch Dankner and other officials on suspicion of share and option offering fraud committed by IDB last year. The investigation details were transferred to the examination of Tel Aviv Prosecutor's Office. The open investigation began last November following an inquiry by the ISA's Investigations, Intelligence and Market Surveillance Department.
'Starving mother' sentence postponed by 4 months
The Jerusalem District Court ruled that the mother dubbed "starving mother" would continue to undergo treatment together with her son for the next four months, as agreed by the prosecution. At the end of the period it will be decided whether to sentence the mother to jail time.
The court rejected the prosecution's request to sentence the mother to prison, claiming that she did not see that her son receives needed treatment and violated the agreement signed following her conviction three years ago.
The Jerusalem District Court ruled that the mother dubbed "starving mother" would continue to undergo treatment together with her son for the next four months, as agreed by the prosecution. At the end of the period it will be decided whether to sentence the mother to jail time.
The court rejected the prosecution's request to sentence the mother to prison, claiming that she did not see that her son receives needed treatment and violated the agreement signed following her conviction three years ago.
Clal Center in Jerusalem after shooting
Preliminary investigation suggests shooter, a security guard, entered office building, shot lawyer, his daughter; stopped by officer who heard the shots
A father and his daughter were shot to death in an office building in Jerusalem's Jaffa street, one of the busiest streets in the city center on Tuesday morning.
The shooter, a security guard, entered an office on the third floor of the Clal Center near Jerusalem's Mahane Yehuda market, and shot the owner, a lawyer, and his daughter. Medics called to the scene were unable to resuscitate the two and were forced to pronounce them dead.
He then tried to flee the scene but a policeman and an ex-cop who heard the shots chased after him and stopped him.
The shooter has been taken into custody.
"A man in his forties entered one of the offices and shot a man in his fifties and a woman in her twenties," said Brigadier-General Amnon Alkalai.
The suspect, a married father of four from Jerusalem, linked himself to the shooting. The murder was apparently connected to a financial dispute between the suspect and the victim.
Attorney David Barhoum from the Public Defender's Office said that the victim had represented the client in financial matters. "He (the suspect) arrived in Jerusalem in order to talk to him (the victim), not murder him," Barhoum said.
"He was carrying a weapon because he's a security guard at the Kotel. The two argued and the lawyer told him to get out. He (the suspect) is unable to give an account of what happened other than he3 fired indiscriminately."
According to Barhoum, the suspect had expressed regret and said he cannot explain what happened.
Medics called to the scene were unable to resuscitate the two and were forced to pronounce them dead.
Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat arrived as the scene and said, "this is a tragedy. It's a very sad case. Our hearts are with the victims' families."
Related stories:
Preliminary investigation suggests shooter, a security guard, entered office building, shot lawyer, his daughter; stopped by officer who heard the shots
A father and his daughter were shot to death in an office building in Jerusalem's Jaffa street, one of the busiest streets in the city center on Tuesday morning.
The shooter, a security guard, entered an office on the third floor of the Clal Center near Jerusalem's Mahane Yehuda market, and shot the owner, a lawyer, and his daughter. Medics called to the scene were unable to resuscitate the two and were forced to pronounce them dead.
He then tried to flee the scene but a policeman and an ex-cop who heard the shots chased after him and stopped him.
The shooter has been taken into custody.
"A man in his forties entered one of the offices and shot a man in his fifties and a woman in her twenties," said Brigadier-General Amnon Alkalai.
The suspect, a married father of four from Jerusalem, linked himself to the shooting. The murder was apparently connected to a financial dispute between the suspect and the victim.
Attorney David Barhoum from the Public Defender's Office said that the victim had represented the client in financial matters. "He (the suspect) arrived in Jerusalem in order to talk to him (the victim), not murder him," Barhoum said.
"He was carrying a weapon because he's a security guard at the Kotel. The two argued and the lawyer told him to get out. He (the suspect) is unable to give an account of what happened other than he3 fired indiscriminately."
According to Barhoum, the suspect had expressed regret and said he cannot explain what happened.
Medics called to the scene were unable to resuscitate the two and were forced to pronounce them dead.
Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat arrived as the scene and said, "this is a tragedy. It's a very sad case. Our hearts are with the victims' families."
Related stories:
22 july 2013
Hagai Felician, indicted in the Barnoar shootings, visited his brother’s grave in the Yarkon cemetery on Sunday, under guard. His 15-year-old brother Or was killed when he fell from a ninth story scaffolding in Bnei Brak about two weeks ago.
The court had rejected Felician’s request to attend his brother’s funeral.
The court had rejected Felician’s request to attend his brother’s funeral.
Charge: Helped soldier steal 2 anti-tank missiles
The Haifa District Attorney filed an indictment in District Court against brothers Farid and Aner Coliib, aged 27 and 29, and against their friend David Mizrahi, 21. The three, residents of Haifa, are accused of helping soldier Yevgeny Harlanov steal two anti-tank missiles from his base.
According to the indictment, the three drove the missiles from the Hermon area base, to Haifa, and Fried Coliib promised to assist in their sale. The Coliib brothers then hid them in their father's warehouse.
The soldier is expected to be tried in military court.
The Haifa District Attorney filed an indictment in District Court against brothers Farid and Aner Coliib, aged 27 and 29, and against their friend David Mizrahi, 21. The three, residents of Haifa, are accused of helping soldier Yevgeny Harlanov steal two anti-tank missiles from his base.
According to the indictment, the three drove the missiles from the Hermon area base, to Haifa, and Fried Coliib promised to assist in their sale. The Coliib brothers then hid them in their father's warehouse.
The soldier is expected to be tried in military court.
Raanana municipality official arrested for bribery
A senior Raanana municipality official was arrested on suspicion of receiving bribes from contractors and vendors in order to promote contracts and for using funds from an NGO that he runs for personal needs.
The Lahav 433 unit searched his home and office on Monday morning; he will be remanded in Rishon Lezion Magistrates Court later in the day.
A senior Raanana municipality official was arrested on suspicion of receiving bribes from contractors and vendors in order to promote contracts and for using funds from an NGO that he runs for personal needs.
The Lahav 433 unit searched his home and office on Monday morning; he will be remanded in Rishon Lezion Magistrates Court later in the day.
Following car owners' complaints, police find boy with marker with which cars were vandalized, take him to questioning
An 11-year-old boy was taken to questioning Sunday after he wrote "Death to Arabs" and "Price tag" on cars in the West Bank.
According to the police, several Palestinians found their cars vandalized in in the Sha'ar Binyamin and reported to police.
Upon arrival, police canvassed the area, until they found the boy with the marker with which the cars were vandalized. Police added that the boy was also suspected of slashing the tire of one of the cars.
The boy was taken to questioning, and was uncooperative at first, refusing to identify himself. Eventually he revealed his identity and was let go, seeing as he is a minor.
The Judea and Samaria police reported that the investigation will continue and that the boy will be called to further questioning Monday.
Related stories:
An 11-year-old boy was taken to questioning Sunday after he wrote "Death to Arabs" and "Price tag" on cars in the West Bank.
According to the police, several Palestinians found their cars vandalized in in the Sha'ar Binyamin and reported to police.
Upon arrival, police canvassed the area, until they found the boy with the marker with which the cars were vandalized. Police added that the boy was also suspected of slashing the tire of one of the cars.
The boy was taken to questioning, and was uncooperative at first, refusing to identify himself. Eventually he revealed his identity and was let go, seeing as he is a minor.
The Judea and Samaria police reported that the investigation will continue and that the boy will be called to further questioning Monday.
Related stories:
21 july 2013
IDF fails to pay NIS 3.8M fine for environmental hazard
After the IDF failed to remove asbestos from an IDF base in the Negev it was slammed with a NIS 3.8 million fine, a fine it failed to pay and will now begin accumulate interest.
The Environmental Defense Minister Amir Pertz said that "we are all equal before the law, and the State and IDF are no exception. If the IDF fails to pay further procedures will be enacted." In response, the IDF said they are currently in negotiations with the ministry.
After the IDF failed to remove asbestos from an IDF base in the Negev it was slammed with a NIS 3.8 million fine, a fine it failed to pay and will now begin accumulate interest.
The Environmental Defense Minister Amir Pertz said that "we are all equal before the law, and the State and IDF are no exception. If the IDF fails to pay further procedures will be enacted." In response, the IDF said they are currently in negotiations with the ministry.
Indictment: 33-year-old molested teens
Hagai Swisa, 33, from the city of Elad was indicted for molesting teenagers, 13 and 17, whom he has taken in his car.
Hagai Swisa, 33, from the city of Elad was indicted for molesting teenagers, 13 and 17, whom he has taken in his car.
Man jailed for 18 months for assaulting 84-year-old in his care
The Jerusalem's Magistrate's Court sentenced Robert Mirnag to a year and a half in jail for attacking an 84-year-old man under his care.
Mirnag was convicted of violently assaulting the senior and causing him bruises all over his body, due to conflict between him and the man's family.
The Jerusalem's Magistrate's Court sentenced Robert Mirnag to a year and a half in jail for attacking an 84-year-old man under his care.
Mirnag was convicted of violently assaulting the senior and causing him bruises all over his body, due to conflict between him and the man's family.
20 july 2013
Police found three incinerated bodies of cats
Four 15-year-old boys called in for questioning after officers on patrol spot them holding spray cans, lighter, later find incinerated cats. Teens say they acted out of boredom
Police suspect four teenage boys from a town near Modiin burned and killed three cats. Officers on a routine patrol noticed the teens carrying suspicion objects on Friday night and later found three dead cats nearby.
According to the police, the teens said they acted out of boredom. They will report for questioning along with their parents on Sunday.
At around 2 am on Friday, Shai District police officers on a patrol noticed four teens holding spray cans and a lighter. This aroused their suspicion and they subsequently found three burned cats after scanning the area. The teens told police they did not plan to burn the cats and that they acted of boredom. They apologized for their actions, according to the police.
Earlier this week, it was reported that Military Police have opened an investigation into a video posted online that shows a soldier seen frying a live bird. The soldier was apparently found and will be questioned and most likely indicted for cruelty to animals.
The video garnered much attention on social networks, but was taken off YouTube on Wednesday night, shortly after it was uploaded. In the 33-second clip, the soldier, dressed in military trousers and a white shirt, is seen holding a small bird's legs, and dipping it in boiling liquid.
The small bird flaps, and then – after encouragement of an off-screen person – the soldier again dips the bird’s head in the pot, holding it under for a few seconds.
"Is it dead?" asks the off-screen person. The soldier who holds the bird examines it before replying, "Yes."
The IDF spokesperson said, "The video presents a serious case which is not in line with the values of the IDF. Military Police have opened an investigation and will pass the findings onto the military prosecutor."
Related stories:
Four 15-year-old boys called in for questioning after officers on patrol spot them holding spray cans, lighter, later find incinerated cats. Teens say they acted out of boredom
Police suspect four teenage boys from a town near Modiin burned and killed three cats. Officers on a routine patrol noticed the teens carrying suspicion objects on Friday night and later found three dead cats nearby.
According to the police, the teens said they acted out of boredom. They will report for questioning along with their parents on Sunday.
At around 2 am on Friday, Shai District police officers on a patrol noticed four teens holding spray cans and a lighter. This aroused their suspicion and they subsequently found three burned cats after scanning the area. The teens told police they did not plan to burn the cats and that they acted of boredom. They apologized for their actions, according to the police.
Earlier this week, it was reported that Military Police have opened an investigation into a video posted online that shows a soldier seen frying a live bird. The soldier was apparently found and will be questioned and most likely indicted for cruelty to animals.
The video garnered much attention on social networks, but was taken off YouTube on Wednesday night, shortly after it was uploaded. In the 33-second clip, the soldier, dressed in military trousers and a white shirt, is seen holding a small bird's legs, and dipping it in boiling liquid.
The small bird flaps, and then – after encouragement of an off-screen person – the soldier again dips the bird’s head in the pot, holding it under for a few seconds.
"Is it dead?" asks the off-screen person. The soldier who holds the bird examines it before replying, "Yes."
The IDF spokesperson said, "The video presents a serious case which is not in line with the values of the IDF. Military Police have opened an investigation and will pass the findings onto the military prosecutor."
Related stories:
19 july 2013
Man suspected of stealing power tools
A 31-year-old man was arrested after a search of his house led to a container containing power tools worth a total of NIS 700,000. They were allegedly stolen from the warehouse of the importer. The importer identified the tools which had been taken to the Taiba police station, and was given them in return. The suspect was arrested and will be questioned.
A 31-year-old man was arrested after a search of his house led to a container containing power tools worth a total of NIS 700,000. They were allegedly stolen from the warehouse of the importer. The importer identified the tools which had been taken to the Taiba police station, and was given them in return. The suspect was arrested and will be questioned.
18 july 2013
Police find casino in bomb shelter meant for torah studies
Migdal Ha'emek police raided a city bomb shelter supposedly used for torah studies, and found a casino in its stead.
Officers found cards and gambling chips, as well as lists of gamblers' names and the sums they lost.
Migdal Ha'emek police raided a city bomb shelter supposedly used for torah studies, and found a casino in its stead.
Officers found cards and gambling chips, as well as lists of gamblers' names and the sums they lost.
Attorney General Yehuda Weinstein came under fire on Thursday by 52 retired judges and legal academics who criticized the AG's approval of a regulation which enables the prolonged detainment of asylum seekers and migrants from Sudan and Eritrea, even if they are suspected of minor infractions and there are not enough evidence to put them to trial.
"The regulation tramples basic human rights," the legal experts wrote Weinstein in a letter, which also claimed the regulation undermines Basic Law: Human Dignity and Liberty, and added: "This isn't about a regulation which aim to promote expulsion from Israel but about a regulation which deals with prolonged revoking of freedom."
"The regulation tramples basic human rights," the legal experts wrote Weinstein in a letter, which also claimed the regulation undermines Basic Law: Human Dignity and Liberty, and added: "This isn't about a regulation which aim to promote expulsion from Israel but about a regulation which deals with prolonged revoking of freedom."
Police recommends prosecution of 4 former Kadima members
Police recommended to trial four former Kadima party members on suspicion of a series of offenses regarding the party's primaries.
Following an investigation conducted by the National Fraud Unit, it is suspected that in the years 2008-2011, the party's Treasurer Itzhak Hadad, Accountant Mordechai Maimon, Chief Information Officer Hanoch Hazin and party Director-Manager Moshe Shchori committed false registering, fraud and money embezzlement, among other offenses.
Police recommended to trial four former Kadima party members on suspicion of a series of offenses regarding the party's primaries.
Following an investigation conducted by the National Fraud Unit, it is suspected that in the years 2008-2011, the party's Treasurer Itzhak Hadad, Accountant Mordechai Maimon, Chief Information Officer Hanoch Hazin and party Director-Manager Moshe Shchori committed false registering, fraud and money embezzlement, among other offenses.
Suspicion: Grandfather raped 7-year-old granddaughters
An 83-year-old Netanya resident was arrested on suspicion of indecent acts and rape of two of his granddaughters when they were seven and eight years old. The suspect was arrested after the two granddaughters complained about the indecent acts committed 16 years ago. The suspect denied all allegations in his interrogation.
An 83-year-old Netanya resident was arrested on suspicion of indecent acts and rape of two of his granddaughters when they were seven and eight years old. The suspect was arrested after the two granddaughters complained about the indecent acts committed 16 years ago. The suspect denied all allegations in his interrogation.
Suspicion: Sprays racist graffiti after sister converts to Islam
Police arrested 25-year-old woman from Jerusalem Wednesday in suspicion of attacking an Arab man following a dispute that erupted between them. Police reported that during her investigation, the woman confessed to spraying racist graffiti against Arabs in Jerusalem after her sister decided to convert to Islam. She will be brought to remand hearing in Jerusalem's Magistrate's Court Thursday morning.
Police arrested 25-year-old woman from Jerusalem Wednesday in suspicion of attacking an Arab man following a dispute that erupted between them. Police reported that during her investigation, the woman confessed to spraying racist graffiti against Arabs in Jerusalem after her sister decided to convert to Islam. She will be brought to remand hearing in Jerusalem's Magistrate's Court Thursday morning.
Emmanuel Rosen questioned on suspicion of sexual offenses
Journalist Emmanuel Rosen is investigated by the National Fraud Unit on suspicion of committing sexual offenses. In the past few months, police have collected testimonies from women who have allegedly been victims of his conduct. Rosen has suspended himself from Channel 10 news three months ago, pending the conclusion of his case.
Journalist Emmanuel Rosen is investigated by the National Fraud Unit on suspicion of committing sexual offenses. In the past few months, police have collected testimonies from women who have allegedly been victims of his conduct. Rosen has suspended himself from Channel 10 news three months ago, pending the conclusion of his case.
49-year-old man tries to kill youth who attacked son
A 49-year-old from Kfar Yona was attacked after he tried to murder a youth who attacked his son. In additional a father and his two sons were arrested for their involvement in the incident.
An investigation revealed that the boy returned home wounded, prompting the father and the boy to go to the assailants house, leading to a massive brawl involving guns and knives
A 49-year-old from Kfar Yona was attacked after he tried to murder a youth who attacked his son. In additional a father and his two sons were arrested for their involvement in the incident.
An investigation revealed that the boy returned home wounded, prompting the father and the boy to go to the assailants house, leading to a massive brawl involving guns and knives
16 july 2013
51st Battalion in training
Combatants sent to 20 days in prison for insubordination; claim commanders punished them excessively for poor results in 5,000-meter race
Thirteen soldiers from the Golani Brigade's 51st Battalion were sentenced on Monday to 20 days in a military prison for refusing to secure an army base in the Golan Heights, Ynet learned on Monday. Two other soldiers from the same unit went AWOL.
The soldiers reportedly refused the order because they felt their commanders had punished them excessively. The combatants said that over the past few months, their commanders had repeatedly canceled their vacations and confined them to the base over what the soldiers referred to as petty acts. This treatment led them to collectively refuse the order, the soldiers said.
It remains unclear whether the jailed soldiers will resume their service in the brigade.
Other soldiers from the brigade were eventually sent to secure the army base in the Golan.
"These are quality soldiers from a top unit within the battalion who felt they were being abused," a relative of one of the jailed soldiers said. "They want to serve their country, and over the past few months they have given their all at the exhausting and demanding brigade-level training exercise."
Another relative said some of the soldiers were confined to their base "because they did not get a good enough result in the 5,000-meter race, while others were confined to the base for not rolling their shirt sleeves adequately. Some of them hadn't visited their homes in over a month, while others decided to go AWOL before the incident."
Last month, Ynet revealed that six commanders and combatants from a Golani Brigade auxiliary company were jailed for physical and mental abuse of soldiers, which spanned months. They were jailed for 14-21 day stretches. Soldiers' testimonies obtained by Ynet served as the basis for the charges brought against them.
According to testimonies, the company commander, a captain, would often swear at and humiliate his subordinates. "It was a habit for him to swear at his soldiers," one soldier said. "He even threw stones and hit a soldier in the back with a stick during one of the exercises."
A month earlier, five combatants and officers from the brigade's elite Egoz unit were dismissed, following an incident in which one of the soldiers urinated on the head of a fellow combatant while his comrades cheered him on and filmed the hazing ceremony with their cell phones.
Related stories:
Combatants sent to 20 days in prison for insubordination; claim commanders punished them excessively for poor results in 5,000-meter race
Thirteen soldiers from the Golani Brigade's 51st Battalion were sentenced on Monday to 20 days in a military prison for refusing to secure an army base in the Golan Heights, Ynet learned on Monday. Two other soldiers from the same unit went AWOL.
The soldiers reportedly refused the order because they felt their commanders had punished them excessively. The combatants said that over the past few months, their commanders had repeatedly canceled their vacations and confined them to the base over what the soldiers referred to as petty acts. This treatment led them to collectively refuse the order, the soldiers said.
It remains unclear whether the jailed soldiers will resume their service in the brigade.
Other soldiers from the brigade were eventually sent to secure the army base in the Golan.
"These are quality soldiers from a top unit within the battalion who felt they were being abused," a relative of one of the jailed soldiers said. "They want to serve their country, and over the past few months they have given their all at the exhausting and demanding brigade-level training exercise."
Another relative said some of the soldiers were confined to their base "because they did not get a good enough result in the 5,000-meter race, while others were confined to the base for not rolling their shirt sleeves adequately. Some of them hadn't visited their homes in over a month, while others decided to go AWOL before the incident."
Last month, Ynet revealed that six commanders and combatants from a Golani Brigade auxiliary company were jailed for physical and mental abuse of soldiers, which spanned months. They were jailed for 14-21 day stretches. Soldiers' testimonies obtained by Ynet served as the basis for the charges brought against them.
According to testimonies, the company commander, a captain, would often swear at and humiliate his subordinates. "It was a habit for him to swear at his soldiers," one soldier said. "He even threw stones and hit a soldier in the back with a stick during one of the exercises."
A month earlier, five combatants and officers from the brigade's elite Egoz unit were dismissed, following an incident in which one of the soldiers urinated on the head of a fellow combatant while his comrades cheered him on and filmed the hazing ceremony with their cell phones.
Related stories:
- Soldier seriously injured in training accident PM: We'll win by instilling fear of death in enemy
- IDF producing 'Jenin Jenin' response film
- State won't indict 'Jenin Jenin' film director for slander
- Op-ed: Time to fight Jenin lies
IDF commander lost eye in war, ready for another
Golani soldiers imprisoned for abandoning post
Hazing suspects: We beat commanders too
Border Guard officers haze new recruits
Charge: NCO steals gas, food from base
A non-commissioned officer in the IDF was charged in military court with stealing thousands of shekels of gas and food from an army base. According to the indictment, the man stole boxes of dry goods which included tuna, oil and coffee, on seven different occasions, later selling them.
In addition, he is accused of stealing 15 helium gas cylinders used by the military for fueling observation balloons deployed along the border with the Gaza Strip.
A non-commissioned officer in the IDF was charged in military court with stealing thousands of shekels of gas and food from an army base. According to the indictment, the man stole boxes of dry goods which included tuna, oil and coffee, on seven different occasions, later selling them.
In addition, he is accused of stealing 15 helium gas cylinders used by the military for fueling observation balloons deployed along the border with the Gaza Strip.
Involuntary manslaughter for running over man
Avraham Cohen, 31, of Rishon Lezion, has been charged with involuntary manslaughter, two-and-a-half years after he ran over a 79-year-old man who was crossing the street.
According to the indictment submitted to Petah Tikva Traffic Court, the defendant struck the senior citizen as he crossed the road at a pedestrian crossing. The man was severely injured and died after an eight month hospitalization.
Avraham Cohen, 31, of Rishon Lezion, has been charged with involuntary manslaughter, two-and-a-half years after he ran over a 79-year-old man who was crossing the street.
According to the indictment submitted to Petah Tikva Traffic Court, the defendant struck the senior citizen as he crossed the road at a pedestrian crossing. The man was severely injured and died after an eight month hospitalization.
Sudanese man charged with molestation of 13-year-old girl
The State Prosecutor's Office filed an indictment against Zacharia Fedawell, a 27-year-old Sudanese citizen, for sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl in Tel Aviv. According to the indictment, the defendant would play with kids in a Tel Aviv neighborhood and molested the girl on several occasions.
The State Prosecutor's Office filed an indictment against Zacharia Fedawell, a 27-year-old Sudanese citizen, for sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl in Tel Aviv. According to the indictment, the defendant would play with kids in a Tel Aviv neighborhood and molested the girl on several occasions.
61-year-old from Elad indicted for allegedly molesting children
A 61-year-old Elad resident was indicted for allegedly performing indecent acts against his neighbor's four children and an additional girl who he enticed into his apartment.
According to the indictment filed with the Petah Tikva Magistrate's Court, the accused used to arrive in the neighbor's house and bring the children, aged 8-12, candy and pitas and then perform the acts. In addition he is accused of performing indecent acts in a seven-year-old girl who went inside his apartment after he offered her chocolate.
A 61-year-old Elad resident was indicted for allegedly performing indecent acts against his neighbor's four children and an additional girl who he enticed into his apartment.
According to the indictment filed with the Petah Tikva Magistrate's Court, the accused used to arrive in the neighbor's house and bring the children, aged 8-12, candy and pitas and then perform the acts. In addition he is accused of performing indecent acts in a seven-year-old girl who went inside his apartment after he offered her chocolate.
15 july 2013
Karate instructor suspected beating wife, children for years
An indictment has been filed against an Ashdod resident for physically abusing his wife and two children for a number of years.
According to the indictment, the accused, a karate instructor, is suspecting of punching his wife and children as well as beating them with a belt whenever they refused to undertake chores. He is suspected of threatening his wife he would kill her should she attempt to divorce him.
An indictment has been filed against an Ashdod resident for physically abusing his wife and two children for a number of years.
According to the indictment, the accused, a karate instructor, is suspecting of punching his wife and children as well as beating them with a belt whenever they refused to undertake chores. He is suspected of threatening his wife he would kill her should she attempt to divorce him.
Life sentence for 24-year-old convicted of stabbing youth to death
The Tel Aviv District court has sentenced Shalom Peretz, 24, to a life sentence after he was convicted of murdering Abraham Nuriel in Tel Aviv.
Peretz will also compensate the family for NIS 40,000 (roughly $11,100). Peretz was convicted of stabbing him Nuriel two years ago and obstruction of justice. Peretz was survived by four brothers.
The Tel Aviv District court has sentenced Shalom Peretz, 24, to a life sentence after he was convicted of murdering Abraham Nuriel in Tel Aviv.
Peretz will also compensate the family for NIS 40,000 (roughly $11,100). Peretz was convicted of stabbing him Nuriel two years ago and obstruction of justice. Peretz was survived by four brothers.
Facility member arrested for burning down principal's office
Karmiel Police have arrested a 50-year-old man on suspicion that he was involved in burning down the principal's office in the Kafr 'Ana High School a week ago.
The suspect is a member of the school's faculty and he will be brought before a court for extension of remand. The background to the incident is still being investigated.
Karmiel Police have arrested a 50-year-old man on suspicion that he was involved in burning down the principal's office in the Kafr 'Ana High School a week ago.
The suspect is a member of the school's faculty and he will be brought before a court for extension of remand. The background to the incident is still being investigated.
Bnei Brak: Man suspected of assaulting friend's ex-girlfriend
A 19-year old girl from southern Israel filed a police complaint against an acquaintance of her ex-boyfriend for sexual assault. According to the girl, she met the man at her ex-boyfriend's shop in Bnei Brak and was led by him to a stairwell in an adjacent building where he touched her private parts. He then fled the scene.
The suspect, 21, tried to offer the girl money if she withdrew the complaint and was arrested.
A 19-year old girl from southern Israel filed a police complaint against an acquaintance of her ex-boyfriend for sexual assault. According to the girl, she met the man at her ex-boyfriend's shop in Bnei Brak and was led by him to a stairwell in an adjacent building where he touched her private parts. He then fled the scene.
The suspect, 21, tried to offer the girl money if she withdrew the complaint and was arrested.
Five youths from the Kippa Seruga settlement were arrested for throwing stones at security forces active in the region Sunday as well as on previous occasions.
The group was captured as part of a sting operation, during which the youths spotted a number of security forces acting as bait, pelted them with stones and where then arrested.
The group was captured as part of a sting operation, during which the youths spotted a number of security forces acting as bait, pelted them with stones and where then arrested.
Three men from Hadera are suspected of extorting a man who stayed at their house during Operation Cast Lead.
At the time they suspected the man of stealing NIS 5,000 (roughly $1,390) from them while he was their guest and 'fined' him NIS 10,000 (roughly $2,780) for it.
One of the three later admitted to stealing the money. The court sentenced them to 20 days probation and 240 community services. Each will also pay the man NIS 2,000 (roughly $556).
At the time they suspected the man of stealing NIS 5,000 (roughly $1,390) from them while he was their guest and 'fined' him NIS 10,000 (roughly $2,780) for it.
One of the three later admitted to stealing the money. The court sentenced them to 20 days probation and 240 community services. Each will also pay the man NIS 2,000 (roughly $556).
Police arrest 3 for suspected involvement in TA bomb scare
Three people were arrested for involvement in a March incident in which police found explosive devices in a Tel Aviv supermarket. According to police, the suspects are known criminal figures who are suspected of plotting the attack.
In March, police found an explosive device in the Tiv Ta'am supermarket in Tel Aviv's Ibn Gavirol Street. The device was neutralized by police bomb-disposal unit.
Three people were arrested for involvement in a March incident in which police found explosive devices in a Tel Aviv supermarket. According to police, the suspects are known criminal figures who are suspected of plotting the attack.
In March, police found an explosive device in the Tiv Ta'am supermarket in Tel Aviv's Ibn Gavirol Street. The device was neutralized by police bomb-disposal unit.
Hebrew-language media outlets reported that two settlers assaulted Sunday night, a Palestinian while he was sitting in a train station in occupied Jerusalem.
The sources added that settlers sprayed the Palestinian with pepper gas before a number of people, who were at the station, arrested one the settlers and handed him over to the Israeli police, while the other fled the scene.
J'lem: Arab man, Jewish woman attacked with tear gas
An Arab man and a Jewish woman sitting in a tram station in Jerusalem were attacked with tear gas by two Jewish youths. Two police officers were nearby and arrested one of the assailants, but failed to arrest the other one.
The sources added that settlers sprayed the Palestinian with pepper gas before a number of people, who were at the station, arrested one the settlers and handed him over to the Israeli police, while the other fled the scene.
J'lem: Arab man, Jewish woman attacked with tear gas
An Arab man and a Jewish woman sitting in a tram station in Jerusalem were attacked with tear gas by two Jewish youths. Two police officers were nearby and arrested one of the assailants, but failed to arrest the other one.
14 july 2013
Police confiscate 1,250 firecrackers in raid
Police confiscated more than 1,250 firecrackers, fireworks and other illegal pyrotechnic devices in a raid in the Manda village in northern Israel on Saturday night.
Commander of the police northern district, Major General Roni Attia, called on shop owners not to sell toys which might cause physical harm.
Police confiscated more than 1,250 firecrackers, fireworks and other illegal pyrotechnic devices in a raid in the Manda village in northern Israel on Saturday night.
Commander of the police northern district, Major General Roni Attia, called on shop owners not to sell toys which might cause physical harm.
6 years in jail to HIV carrier who raped his wife
The Haifa District Court sentenced for six years in jail a 40-year-old man convicted of raping, threatening and falsely imprisoning his wife. The background to the crimes was the wife's refusal to have sex with the man after she found out is an HIV carrier.
The judges determined that the woman is still suffering from trauma induced from the acts, and have therefore gave what they deemed to be a severe sentence.
The Haifa District Court sentenced for six years in jail a 40-year-old man convicted of raping, threatening and falsely imprisoning his wife. The background to the crimes was the wife's refusal to have sex with the man after she found out is an HIV carrier.
The judges determined that the woman is still suffering from trauma induced from the acts, and have therefore gave what they deemed to be a severe sentence.
A view of Israeli Ayalon prison in Ramle near Tel Aviv on February 14, 2013
A former Israeli intelligence chief said on Saturday that authorities held a person in secret during the 1970s but implied that the prisoner was no longer in custody.
"Thirty-five years ago, in my post as head of military intelligence, I approved the detention in prison of Prisoner X, in total isolation," Haaretz newspaper quoted Shlomo Gazit as saying in an email.
"The affair ended a long time ago, happily without any leaks," added the retired major general, who served between 1974 and 1979.
"But, even though decades have passed since then, publication of the story could still cause great damage even today," he said.
He did not say if the person was now living or give any hint of his or her offense.
Interviewed Saturday evening on army radio Gazit did not explain why he was speaking now or comment on any similarity between that case and two more recent instances.
Israeli media reported the latest example on Thursday, saying that another inmate, also referred to as "Prisoner X" has been held in isolation for many years.
The prisoner, whose identity is a secret even to his guards, is locked in a high security cell with no windows in Ayalon prison near Tel Aviv, reports said, adding he is only allowed a brief walk alone in a courtyard surrounded by a wall.
Like Israeli-Australian spy Ben Zygier, who hanged himself in December 2010 in a neighboring cell of the same prison, the latest "Prisoner X" is monitored by cameras 24 hours a day to prevent a possible suicide.
Gazit said the person held on his watch was the only one at the time imprisoned at the request of the military.
"It may be that another security service, the Mossad or the Shin Bet, had someone, I don't know," he told the radio.
Avigdor Feldman, a lawyer who visited Zygier just days before his death and who specializes in security cases, said the case against the latest prisoner was "worse than Ben Zygier's case".
The mysterious arrest and death of Zygier, an alleged Mossad spy, shocked Israel and Australia when news of it hit headlines in February.
He too was initially referred to as "Prisoner X" before the Australian media identified him as an agent for Israel's shadowy Mossad spy service.
When Zygier's story hit the headlines in February, Israel's Internal Security Minister Yitzhak Aharonovitch insisted there were no more prisoners being held incognito.
A former Israeli intelligence chief said on Saturday that authorities held a person in secret during the 1970s but implied that the prisoner was no longer in custody.
"Thirty-five years ago, in my post as head of military intelligence, I approved the detention in prison of Prisoner X, in total isolation," Haaretz newspaper quoted Shlomo Gazit as saying in an email.
"The affair ended a long time ago, happily without any leaks," added the retired major general, who served between 1974 and 1979.
"But, even though decades have passed since then, publication of the story could still cause great damage even today," he said.
He did not say if the person was now living or give any hint of his or her offense.
Interviewed Saturday evening on army radio Gazit did not explain why he was speaking now or comment on any similarity between that case and two more recent instances.
Israeli media reported the latest example on Thursday, saying that another inmate, also referred to as "Prisoner X" has been held in isolation for many years.
The prisoner, whose identity is a secret even to his guards, is locked in a high security cell with no windows in Ayalon prison near Tel Aviv, reports said, adding he is only allowed a brief walk alone in a courtyard surrounded by a wall.
Like Israeli-Australian spy Ben Zygier, who hanged himself in December 2010 in a neighboring cell of the same prison, the latest "Prisoner X" is monitored by cameras 24 hours a day to prevent a possible suicide.
Gazit said the person held on his watch was the only one at the time imprisoned at the request of the military.
"It may be that another security service, the Mossad or the Shin Bet, had someone, I don't know," he told the radio.
Avigdor Feldman, a lawyer who visited Zygier just days before his death and who specializes in security cases, said the case against the latest prisoner was "worse than Ben Zygier's case".
The mysterious arrest and death of Zygier, an alleged Mossad spy, shocked Israel and Australia when news of it hit headlines in February.
He too was initially referred to as "Prisoner X" before the Australian media identified him as an agent for Israel's shadowy Mossad spy service.
When Zygier's story hit the headlines in February, Israel's Internal Security Minister Yitzhak Aharonovitch insisted there were no more prisoners being held incognito.
12 july 2013
Young Jewish man admits to police he staged 'Arab price tag' act to 'raise awareness'
A young Jewish man was arrested overnight Friday for staging an 'Arab price tag' act on his own vehicle.
The 22 year old, who resides in a settlement near Jerusalem and was visiting family in the capital's Kiryat Moshe neighborhood, called the police a little after midnight and told the dispatcher that someone had spray-painted the phrase "Itbah al-Yahud" ("slaughter the Jews" in Arabic) on his car and slashed its tires.
He also claimed that a mixture of sugar and silicon was poured on the hood.
Officers who arrived at the scene interrogated the young man, who eventually admitted that he had damaged his own vehicle to "raise awareness" to "price tag" acts committed by Arabs against Jews. He spent the night in a detention facility.
A young Jewish man was arrested overnight Friday for staging an 'Arab price tag' act on his own vehicle.
The 22 year old, who resides in a settlement near Jerusalem and was visiting family in the capital's Kiryat Moshe neighborhood, called the police a little after midnight and told the dispatcher that someone had spray-painted the phrase "Itbah al-Yahud" ("slaughter the Jews" in Arabic) on his car and slashed its tires.
He also claimed that a mixture of sugar and silicon was poured on the hood.
Officers who arrived at the scene interrogated the young man, who eventually admitted that he had damaged his own vehicle to "raise awareness" to "price tag" acts committed by Arabs against Jews. He spent the night in a detention facility.
11 july 2013
Tristan Anderson will suffer from physical and mental problems, in addition to chronic pain, for the rest of his life
Israel's Supreme Court Wednesday ordered a re-opening of the police investigation in the case of American activist Tristan Anderson, who was critically injured by Israeli forces in 2009. The Court conceded to a petition filed by Anderson's family and Israeli NGO Yesh Din, who had appealed what they termed a "shockingly negligent" investigation of the incident.
Tristan Anderson (41) was critically wounded when a high velocity tear gas grenade shot by Israeli Border Police hit his head while he was documenting a protest against Israel's Separation Wall in the West Bank village of Nil'in in 2009. Witnesses confirmed that Anderson was not involved in any violent activity on the site and hit without warning. Anderson suffered serious head injuries and has serious mental and physical limitations and chronic pain which will accompany him through life.
Four years after the incident, no police have been responsible.
The Court Wednesday ordered investigations into the case be re-opened. Police authorities must report back to the Court within 120 days. Internal police investigations following the shooting were closed after six month without explanations. No police personnel were held responsible. Police witnesses refused any responsibility, while inconsistencies call their testimonies into question. Investigators reportedly did not visit the scene to collect physical evidence. Anderson's advocates claim that shots of tear gas grenades were targeted at protesters directly from close range, a claim that video footage seems to support.
Anderson's family from the United States could not attend today's trial but was updated by Israeli activists following up on the case. Tristan spent one year in Israeli hospitals after being shot and was supported by his parents and girlfriend during that time. The family is left with high bills for medical treatment and travel expenses that they demand be covered by Israeli authorities. A second court case has been opened to determine possible compensation for the family. The first hearing is scheduled for 10 November 2013 in Jerusalem.
State attorney declared investigations would not lead to findings.
Ordered by the Court to re-open investigations, state attorney Uri Kedar declared the authorities would follow the request but were unlikely to find any new evidence. Anderson's attorneys Michael Sfard and Emily Schaeffer criticized the statement as "insulting": "This remark was a slap in the face for the victim's family and could be understood as a declaration that investigations would not be conducted properly," Sfard stated.
Sfard and Schaeffer had commented before the trial: “The astonishing negligence of this investigation and of the prosecutorial team that monitored its outcome is unacceptable, but it epitomizes Israel’s culture of impunity. Tristan’s case is actually not rare; it represents hundreds of other cases of Palestinian victims whose investigations have also failed.”
Yesh Din has compiled video footage showing the minutes before and after Tristan Anderson was shot in Nil'in:
“Perpetrators of the Shooting of Tristan Anderson”: .
“Aftermath of the shooting of Tristan Anderson Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3:
Israel's Supreme Court Wednesday ordered a re-opening of the police investigation in the case of American activist Tristan Anderson, who was critically injured by Israeli forces in 2009. The Court conceded to a petition filed by Anderson's family and Israeli NGO Yesh Din, who had appealed what they termed a "shockingly negligent" investigation of the incident.
Tristan Anderson (41) was critically wounded when a high velocity tear gas grenade shot by Israeli Border Police hit his head while he was documenting a protest against Israel's Separation Wall in the West Bank village of Nil'in in 2009. Witnesses confirmed that Anderson was not involved in any violent activity on the site and hit without warning. Anderson suffered serious head injuries and has serious mental and physical limitations and chronic pain which will accompany him through life.
Four years after the incident, no police have been responsible.
The Court Wednesday ordered investigations into the case be re-opened. Police authorities must report back to the Court within 120 days. Internal police investigations following the shooting were closed after six month without explanations. No police personnel were held responsible. Police witnesses refused any responsibility, while inconsistencies call their testimonies into question. Investigators reportedly did not visit the scene to collect physical evidence. Anderson's advocates claim that shots of tear gas grenades were targeted at protesters directly from close range, a claim that video footage seems to support.
Anderson's family from the United States could not attend today's trial but was updated by Israeli activists following up on the case. Tristan spent one year in Israeli hospitals after being shot and was supported by his parents and girlfriend during that time. The family is left with high bills for medical treatment and travel expenses that they demand be covered by Israeli authorities. A second court case has been opened to determine possible compensation for the family. The first hearing is scheduled for 10 November 2013 in Jerusalem.
State attorney declared investigations would not lead to findings.
Ordered by the Court to re-open investigations, state attorney Uri Kedar declared the authorities would follow the request but were unlikely to find any new evidence. Anderson's attorneys Michael Sfard and Emily Schaeffer criticized the statement as "insulting": "This remark was a slap in the face for the victim's family and could be understood as a declaration that investigations would not be conducted properly," Sfard stated.
Sfard and Schaeffer had commented before the trial: “The astonishing negligence of this investigation and of the prosecutorial team that monitored its outcome is unacceptable, but it epitomizes Israel’s culture of impunity. Tristan’s case is actually not rare; it represents hundreds of other cases of Palestinian victims whose investigations have also failed.”
Yesh Din has compiled video footage showing the minutes before and after Tristan Anderson was shot in Nil'in:
“Perpetrators of the Shooting of Tristan Anderson”: .
“Aftermath of the shooting of Tristan Anderson Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3:
Military Police nabs four suspected of stealing M-16 guns from northern IDF base; one suspect claims he was thieves' victim, but police suspect he was part of plot
Four residents of Bir al-Maksur in their 20s were arrested for allegedly stealing M-16 guns from the Naftali Base near the Golani Junction in northern Israel, on two separate incidents.
According to suspicion, one of the suspects, a 19-year-old soldier who reported his weapon had been stolen in the incident, actually fabricated the story and collaborated with the other suspects.
Following an interrogation, the four will be brought for a remand hearing Friday in a Nazareth court.
The arrested soldier is suspected of collaborating with the thieves, his neighbors in the Bir al-Maksur village in northern Israel. According to suspicions, he posed as the thieves' victim, who broke last October and on June into the Naftali Base.
Military Police suspect that the soldier also collaborated on the previous, more violent incident which occurred a year ago, in the course of which four M-16s were stolen and the robbers even handcuffed a soldier.
Military Police have invested many investigative tools, including surveillance, to crack the ongoing case, and have interrogated all the soldiers in the base. But the IDF is still trying to locate the five guns, most likely sold to criminals.
The arrested soldier has denied the allegations, but according to a high-ranking officer within the Military Police, the investigators have hard evidence against him, as well as the testimony of another suspect who incriminated him.
Police and Military Police requested the court to remand the suspects. Following the break-ins, security in Naftali Base has been boosted, intelligence relays between Military Police and their civilian counterparts in the northern district have been strengthened.
According to Military Police, so far 11 weapons were stolen from soldiers' homes and an additional 18 from IDF bases, while last year the number stood at about a hundred – half of which were found and returned.
Last week Military Police Chief Colonel Erez Raban held a special discussion on the issue with Deputy Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Gadi Eizenkot, who instructed him to increase activity against the phenomenon.
Over recent months the IDF held some 2,000 activities on the subject.
Related stories:
Four residents of Bir al-Maksur in their 20s were arrested for allegedly stealing M-16 guns from the Naftali Base near the Golani Junction in northern Israel, on two separate incidents.
According to suspicion, one of the suspects, a 19-year-old soldier who reported his weapon had been stolen in the incident, actually fabricated the story and collaborated with the other suspects.
Following an interrogation, the four will be brought for a remand hearing Friday in a Nazareth court.
The arrested soldier is suspected of collaborating with the thieves, his neighbors in the Bir al-Maksur village in northern Israel. According to suspicions, he posed as the thieves' victim, who broke last October and on June into the Naftali Base.
Military Police suspect that the soldier also collaborated on the previous, more violent incident which occurred a year ago, in the course of which four M-16s were stolen and the robbers even handcuffed a soldier.
Military Police have invested many investigative tools, including surveillance, to crack the ongoing case, and have interrogated all the soldiers in the base. But the IDF is still trying to locate the five guns, most likely sold to criminals.
The arrested soldier has denied the allegations, but according to a high-ranking officer within the Military Police, the investigators have hard evidence against him, as well as the testimony of another suspect who incriminated him.
Police and Military Police requested the court to remand the suspects. Following the break-ins, security in Naftali Base has been boosted, intelligence relays between Military Police and their civilian counterparts in the northern district have been strengthened.
According to Military Police, so far 11 weapons were stolen from soldiers' homes and an additional 18 from IDF bases, while last year the number stood at about a hundred – half of which were found and returned.
Last week Military Police Chief Colonel Erez Raban held a special discussion on the issue with Deputy Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Gadi Eizenkot, who instructed him to increase activity against the phenomenon.
Over recent months the IDF held some 2,000 activities on the subject.
Related stories:
