Suspicion: IPS officer helped murder suspect evade justice through her inmate lover
The IPS intelligence division uncovered a romantic connection between a 34-year-old officer from Hod HaSharon and an inmate, the brother of the main suspect in the murder of Binyahu Razi. It is suspected that the inmate used the officer's phone to help his brother stay on the run.
A dramatic development in the investigation into the murder of Binyahu Razi: an Israel Prison Service (IPS) officer and an inmate, the brother of Avi'or Sasson — the main suspect who remains on the run — have been arrested on suspicion of aiding him in evading law enforcement. According to investigators, a romantic relationship developed between the 34-year-old officer from Hod HaSharon and the inmate, who is serving time for extortion and running a loan-sharking network. It is suspected that through the officer's mobile phone, the inmate helped his brother Avi'or hide from the police. The officer is suspected of obstructing an investigation and breach of trust.
The IPS intelligence division received indications of the connection and the illicit use of the officer's phone, passing the information to the police. Authorities are currently determining the extent of the assistance provided to Sasson and whether instructions or resources were passed to him to facilitate his escape.
Chief Superintendent Rotem Hila Zaken, head of the Zion District Investigation Bureau, stated:
"The manhunt for the murder suspect continues around the clock. We will reach every person who helps obstruct the investigation or the suspect's escape, with the goal of reaching the truth and bringing all those involved to justice."
IPS spokesperson, Brigadier General Zivan Freidin, stated that the organization maintains zero tolerance for ethical breaches and continues to strengthen oversight mechanisms, including the use of polygraph tests.
The Murder in Nachlaot
Binyahu Razi, 19, was murdered on July 11 in a short-term rental apartment in Jerusalem's Nachlaot neighborhood. Investigators believe he was lured to a meeting with his ex-partner, Agam Tsarfi, and her friend Shilat Huta. Other suspects subsequently arrived, attacking Razi with knives, clubs, and a meat tenderizer; the attack was reportedly broadcast live. While one detainee claims a "sulha" (reconciliation) was attempted, police are investigating whether the meeting was a trap.
Avi'or Sasson, 17, is suspected as a primary participant. Police have taken the exceptional step of releasing his identity, warning that anyone assisting him faces up to three years in prison. Several suspects have been arrested for providing Sasson with a "shell" to facilitate his hiding. The history of volatile relations between Razi and Tsarfi, including previous police complaints, remains a focal point of the investigation into the motives and planning of the crime.
