Man Who Fled Soldiers, Was Shot, and Medevaced Faces $28,000 Bill

Israel's State Prosecutor's Office has filed a civil lawsuit demanding approximately $28,000 (105,000 shekels) from a man convicted of smuggling weapons and ammunition from Jordan into Israel. The lawsuit targets Hassan Al-Ma'ada, a resident of Kuseife, who attempted to flee security forces in June 2021 when they intercepted his smuggling operation.

During the pursuit, Al-Ma'ada did not stop when ordered and was shot in the legs by soldiers as they attempted to apprehend him. A soldier was also injured during the incident. To evacuate both individuals, a "Yanshuf" helicopter was dispatched, transporting them to Soroka Hospital. The cost of this aerial evacuation amounted to roughly 105,000 shekels.

The Ministry of Defense argues that the need for the costly helicopter evacuation would not have arisen had Al-Ma'ada not resisted arrest and attempted to escape. Al-Ma'ada had previously pleaded guilty to charges including importing and trading weapons and obstructing a police officer. In 2023, he was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison, a suspended sentence, a 10,000 shekel fine, and a driver's license suspension.

The lawsuit, filed by attorney Gali Zimmerman-Haddad of the Southern District Attorney's Office (Civil), cites negligence, breach of statutory duty, and unjust enrichment. In addition to the evacuation costs, the Ministry of Defense is also seeking interest, legal expenses, and attorney fees.