Suspect Arrested in Jerusalem Baby Food Contamination Case

Police announced Monday the arrest of a Southern resident in his 40s suspected of involvement in the contamination of baby food with sedatives in Jerusalem. Investigators from the Law Enforcement Unit in the Zion region stated they had achieved a breakthrough in identifying the suspect.

The suspect was apprehended at his home and taken for questioning. He is scheduled to appear in court Tuesday for a remand hearing. Authorities are investigating the possibility of additional suspects being involved. The incident is not believed to have a nationalistic motive.

Approximately two and a half months ago, four young children were hospitalized at Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center after exhibiting symptoms of drowsiness, weakness, and apathy. They had been playing in a garden near their homes. Blood tests revealed traces of benzodiazepines, sedative and anesthetic substances found in adult anxiety medications like Valium and Clonazepam.

Following the hospitalizations, the Ministry of Health investigated a potential link to "Prinuk" brand baby fruit puree purchased from "Zol u'Vagadol" chain stores. The police also launched an investigation.

Days later, laboratory tests confirmed the suspicions: Clonazepam and Lorazepam, adult sedative medications, were found in jars of "Prinuk" baby fruit puree. The two stores that sold the contaminated products were ordered closed, and the investigation was assigned to the Law Enforcement Unit.