Suspect in gluing the lock of 'Cafe BaSmita' distanced from the business
The suspect was arrested on suspicion of involvement in graffiti, littering, and damaging the lock of the cafe, which has been a focal point for protests between ultra-Orthodox and secular individuals over its operation on Saturdays.
The Magistrate's Court in Jerusalem ordered this morning, Tuesday, the distancing of a suspect accused of causing damage to the "disputed cafe," Cafe BaSmita, last Saturday.
Hours before the riots surrounding the cafe's opening in the heart of Jerusalem began once again, employees discovered that the entrance door lock had been glued shut. Staff were unable to open the door, which delayed the business's opening.
Security camera footage shows a woman in a dress arriving at the cafe during the night and gluing the lock. Police officers from the Lev HaBira station in the Jerusalem District arrested the woman yesterday on suspicion of involvement in graffiti, littering, and damaging the business's property.
Following a police request, a hearing was held today at the Magistrate's Court in Jerusalem, which ordered the extension of restrictive release conditions, including a distancing order and a ban on entering the premises.
In recent weeks, dozens of ultra-Orthodox individuals have protested in front of the cafe, expressing opposition to the business opening on Saturday, while secular residents have gathered to demand "freedom from religion." These events have led to clashes between the protesters. The cafe has become a focal point of the unrest and has sustained damages. The past weekend marked the seventh consecutive weekend that these protests have taken place.
