Police widen probe into suspected sedative in baby fruit pouches

Israel Police has deepened its investigation into suspicions that sedative substances were introduced into baby fruit purees, after some of the Health Ministry’s test findings were handed to Jerusalem District investigators. Police said the results are now being used as the basis for further investigative steps, following the initial report that prompted the case.

Because the matter involves the safety of minors, the Jerusalem district commander assigned the probe to the Zion Area’s serious crime unit. Investigators have already begun a series of overt and covert actions aimed at identifying the source of the sedative materials and determining how they were placed in the products.

Earlier, Channel 12 reported that the Shin Bet had been brought into the investigation, but i24NEWS police and crime correspondent Lee Ayash reported that the security service is not involved at this stage. Police said all possible leads are being examined and that the work is being carried out in close, continuous coordination with Health Ministry experts.