Son of former minister arrested for illegal weapon possession: 'My partner was murdered at Nova, I am afraid'
The son of former minister Amnon Cohen was arrested after a loaded handgun with no serial number and drugs were found in his car. During interrogation, he explained: 'My partner was murdered, since then I have been carrying a handgun for self-defense.'
Eli Cohen, the son of former Shas minister Amnon Cohen, was arrested on suspicion of illegal possession of a handgun after YASAM Shefela officers stopped his vehicle on Highway 44 near Ramle. A search of the car revealed a loaded firearm.
According to police reports, the seized handgun has no serial number, is not IDF-issued, and is suspected to be a smuggled firearm. Additionally, drugs were found in the vehicle, and the suspect admitted ownership of all items discovered.
The incident took place last Thursday during an operation by YASAM Shefela detectives. Officers noticed a vehicle that aroused suspicion and ordered the driver to pull over. A subsequent search led to the discovery of the weapon.
During his interrogation, Cohen explained his reasoning:
'My partner was murdered, since then I have been carrying a handgun for self-defense. I have feared for my life since October 7th.'
The police issued a statement regarding the arrest:
'As part of proactive efforts to maintain public security, YASAM Shefela officers stopped a suspicious vehicle on Highway 44 near the Nesher plant. Officers were forced to shatter the vehicle's window to neutralize the driver and complete the arrest safely.'
A bag containing an FN-type handgun loaded with a 9mm magazine was seized. The suspect, a resident of Rehovot in his 40s, was transferred to the Ramle police station. His detention has been extended until Tuesday.
