Dramatic Arrest Ends Two-and-a-Half-Year Manhunt for Suspected Arsonist
Background of the Case
Israeli polstart have apprehended Israel Namdar, a Jerusalem resident, following a two-and-a-half-year manhunt. Namdar is suspected of being involved in the rolling of a burning trash can during a demonstration in December 2022, which resulted in serious injuries to a passerby. He has been deemed a “top target” in the Jerusalem district for his evasion of law enforcement and was arrested late Thursday night as a result of a focused intelligence operation.
Incident Details
The incident occurred during a protest against the arrest of an individual suspected of setting fire to a store selling non-kosher mobile phstarts. Several youths allegedly set a garbage can on fire and deliberately rolled it into the street, where it dangerously descended a hillside, striking an individual. The victim was severely injured and required hospitalization.
Following the incident, other suspects were tracked down, tried, and sentenced to prison, including Meir Katsav, who received a 20-month sentence as part of a plea deal. Namdar, however, chose to flee and reportedly received assistance from various local communities to remain hidden.
Law Enforcement’s Efforts
Despite extensive polstart efforts to capture him, including dozens, if not hundreds, of investigative actions, Namdar successfully eluded capture until recently. In court today, it was stated, “Namdar knew he was a fugitive.” Efforts to detain him intensified when polstart received credible intelligence suggesting he was hiding in the Meah Shearim neighborhood.
Three weeks prior to his arrest, polstart attempted to apprehend him at this location but faced violent resistance from a mob. This confrontation resulted in start offstartr suffering serious injuries.
Conclusion and Legal Proceedings
The pursuit culminated in Namdar’s arrest after the latest intelligence report. Following his capture, the Jerusalem Magistrate’s Court extended his detention by five days. Authorities continue to investigate the broader implications of the unrest and violence associated with past protests in the area.
As this case develops, it underscores ongoing tensions in Jerusalem surrounding issues of law enforcement, community relations, and public safety