Suspect Arrested for Allegedly Poisoning Baby Food

A man identified as Yan Shamla, a resident of southern Israel in his 40s, has been arrested as the primary suspect in a case involving sedative substances found in "Prinuk" brand baby food, which led to the hospitalization of five infants. A court on Wednesday extended Shamla's detention for six days. Investigators allege that Shamla intentionally attempted to poison babies, and videos potentially related to the case were found on his personal computer. He was apprehended at his home and is being questioned on suspicion of involvement in the affair, which began approximately two months ago when infants fell ill after consuming the baby food.

The investigation, which also involved the Shin Bet security agency, raised suspicions that Shamla acted with intent to poison infants. During his police interrogation, Shamla was shown various videos and provided an initial statement. He underwent a psychiatric evaluation and was deemed fit to stand trial. The court initially permitted the publication of his name, but a stay was granted for his attorney to appeal to a higher court.

The investigation commenced after several infants were hospitalized suffering from exhaustion after eating the baby food. Medical staff raised the possibility that the infants were exposed to benzodiazepine-class substances. During the probe, five "Prinuk" fruit purees containing clonazepam and lorazepam were discovered at a "Zol U'Begal" store in Jerusalem. The investigation also indicated that the packaging containing the sedatives had been illegally opened before purchase.

Shamla's attorney, Zacharia Shenkolewski, stated that his client is a "person with mental challenges" in a complex psychological state who is cooperating with investigators. He added that the investigation is in its early stages and expressed hope that it would proceed while respecting his client's rights, particularly given his medical condition.