Channel 12 News and Haaretz under attack: Police make arrest
Bricks thrown at entrances and a threatening letter left at the offices of major Israeli media outlets led to a covert investigation by the Tel Aviv Central Unit, resulting in a dramatic arrest and the filing of a prosecutor's statement.
As part of an investigation conducted in recent weeks by the Tel Aviv Central Unit, evidence was collected regarding several serious criminal incidents. It emerged that during July, reports were received regarding damage caused to the entrances of buildings housing major media outlets: Channel 12 News, the Haaretz newspaper, Israel Hayom, and the Ministry of Justice building.
According to investigators, the damage to the entrance doors was carried out using bricks and was intended to intimidate media personnel and influence their coverage. In addition to the property damage, the suspect placed a threatening letter against journalists and public figures at the entrance to Channel 12 News on the night of July 28, the same location where he had thrown a brick.
As the investigation progressed, Central Unit investigators identified the suspect, a resident of Ramat Gan in his 40s, and tracked his movements using technological means and covert operations. On July 30, the suspect was arrested. A search of his home yielded clothing and other evidence linking him to the offenses. Today, a prosecutor's statement was filed, and a formal indictment is expected in the coming days.
The Israel Police stated:
"The Israel Police views with great severity any attempt to harm state institutions and media bodies, especially those who try to intimidate journalists to disrupt their work. Freedom of the press is one of the cornerstones of democracy, and the Israel Police will act with determination against anyone who uses violence or intimidation to silence freedom of expression."
