East Jerusalem man killed in apparent brawl, several others injured
Police investigating; 105 killed this year in violent incidents in Arab Israeli communities
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An East Jerusalem man was killed on Monday night, likely during a violent brawl, according to the Israel Police.
Police said the man, a resident of the Shuafat refugee camp, was brought to a checkpoint in critical condition. He was taken to the Hadassah Mount Scopus Medical Center, where his death was pronounced.
Police have opened an investigation.
Several other people were injured in the fight, according to police.
According to the Haaretz newspaper, the victim was identified as Ahmad Alkam.
Following his death, a mob descended on the suspected murderer’s home in Shuafat and attempted to set it on fire, according to Haaretz.
Police did not immediately confirm those details, but said additional troops have been sent to the area to quell unrest.
The latest violence comes amid a wave of violent crime in Arab Israeli areas and East Jerusalem.
Arab Israelis have long lamented a dearth of law and order in their cities and towns, where they say police rarely care to solve homicides. But this year is poised to be the bloodiest on record, with 105 killings in the community recorded well before year’s end.
On Sunday, the government advanced a NIS 2.4 billion ($784 million) five-year plan to end the violence. Some more extreme measures, such as involving the Shin Bet security service and expanding police powers, are also being examined. The plan will now head to the Knesset, where it is set to be passed as part of the upcoming budget.
The Times of Israel Community.