Suspect Identified in Sedative Poisoning of Baby Food

Jerusalem's Magistrate Court has lifted a gag order, allowing the publication of the name of a suspect arrested in connection with the intentional poisoning of "Prinoq" brand baby food. The suspect is Yan Shemla, a man in his 40s from southern Israel. Shemla is suspected of intentionally poisoning food products for infants and young children, using poison to endanger lives, theft, and negligent handling of medications.

During a hearing on extending his detention, Shemla's lawyer stated that his client suffers from bipolar disorder and has a psychiatric history. Following his arrest, Shemla was sent for evaluation at Eitanim Psychiatric Hospital, where he was deemed fit for detention.

According to Kan news, police possess video footage that allegedly links Shemla to the incident. His arrest has been extended until Sunday as the investigation continues. The case came to light in June when three infants were hospitalized with traces of the sedatives clonazepam and lorazepam in their blood. All three children had consumed "Prinoq" fruit puree purchased from various branches of the "Zol Ve'Begadol" chain in Jerusalem before falling ill. A Health Ministry inspection of the stores revealed that some of the "Prinoq" puree jars had previously been opened.