Contrary to Police and Shin Bet position: Body of suspect who attempted to stab officer in Lod released

After more than a month during which his body was held at the Institute of Forensic Medicine, the funeral of Sami Jassous, who was shot to death in Lod after allegedly attempting to stab a police officer, will take place tonight (Wednesday). The release of the body was approved by the IDF, despite the initial position of the police and the Shin Bet, who had recommended against allowing the burial at this stage of the investigation.

The shooting occurred on July 1, following a report to the police emergency center from a citizen who spotted a person holding a knife near a school in Lod. A patrol car from the Lod station arrived at the scene, but the suspect fled when officers ordered him to stop.

According to investigation findings, during his flight, Jassous encountered a team of YASAM special forces. Police state that he ran towards one of the officers while holding a knife and attempted to stab him. A struggle ensued, and due to the threat to the officer's life, fire was opened at the suspect, who was critically wounded and later pronounced dead.

Following the incident, Central District Commander Commissioner Amir Cohen assigned the investigation to the Central Unit of the Central District. Police emphasized that the circumstances remain under investigation and that a terrorist motive has not been ruled out.

Following the approval of the body's release, a meeting was held between Jassous's family and police officials to establish a framework for the funeral. Conditions and restrictions were set to prevent disturbances, incitement, or expressions of support for terrorism.

Lod station commander Colonel Midad Lavi is leading police preparations for the funeral procession. Police are deploying reinforced forces, both visible and undercover, and have declared a zero-tolerance policy toward any violations of the established conditions or disturbances of the peace.