Slain PIJ member was involved in killing of police commando earlier this year

In a joint statement, the Israel Defense Forces and Border Police say the Palestinian Islamic Jihad member killed in Jenin earlier today was involved in the killing of a veteran police commando earlier this year.

The military and police say Farouk Salameh was involved in opening fire at troops several times, including during a raid in May when Command Sgt. Maj. Noam Raz was killed.

Salameh also has ties to the Nablus-based Lion’s Den, and is suspected of planning additional shooting attacks, Israeli officials say.

During the operation today in the Jenin refugee camp, police say forces raided a building where Salameh was, leading to an exchange of gunfire. Salameh fled the scene, and troops chased after him, during which he drew a handgun at them, police say. The forces opened fire, killing him.

Several other armed men who opened fire at troops were also shot, according to the joint statement.

Forces seized Salameh’s handgun, as well as another M-16 rifle in the building.

Five suspects were also detained by troops during the raid, Israeli officials say. They have been taken by the Shin Bet security agency for further questioning.
No Israeli soldiers were hurt during the raid, according to officials.