South Israel Man Suspected of Poisoning Baby Food

Police in Israel have identified a primary suspect in the case of contaminated "Fruney" brand baby food: Yan Shmala, a man in his 40s from southern Israel. Authorities believe Shmala intentionally added sedative and sleep-inducing drugs to fruit purees, endangering infants. He faces charges including intentional poisoning, using poison to endanger life, theft, and reckless handling of medication.

A police representative stated in court that the suspect admitted to adding a substance to the puree with the intent to poison children. Investigators are now working to determine how Shmala obtained the drugs. The possibility of a second individual's involvement is also being explored.

Shmala's defense attorney claimed he suffers from manic-depressive disorder, leading to a psychiatric evaluation. Specialists deemed him fit for detention, which has been extended until August 6. The investigation began in June after several children were hospitalized with potent sedatives in their systems.

Health Ministry tests confirmed the presence of clonazepam and lorazepam in the purees. A total of five children were affected, but none suffered severe harm and have since been released from the hospital. Investigations revealed that five affected packages may have been tampered with before purchase.

Two of these packages were found on store shelves in Jerusalem, while three were given to the families of hospitalized children. Searches of importer warehouses and other retail locations yielded no further suspicious findings. The Czech manufacturer reported no production issues, and import and storage processes appeared normal, strengthening the theory that the poisoning occurred after the products reached the market.

Investigators from the Zion district's crime unit recently apprehended Shmala at his home, marking a significant breakthrough.