Third Suspect Arrested in Killing of Alleged 'Caucasus Mafia' Boss

Israeli police have apprehended a third suspect in connection with the August 23 assassination of Yanis Yushvaev, whom media outlets have identified as the head of the "Caucasus mafia." Yushvaev was shot and killed at close range outside a snack bar at a gas station in Caesarea. Two other suspects were arrested two days after the murder, found hiding in a warehouse with a knife in their possession. Details regarding the apprehension of the third suspect have not yet been released. Authorities plan to request an extension of the suspect's detention based on interrogation results and gathered evidence.

Yushvaev, whose group operated in the Sharon region, had a history of arrests on suspicion of involvement in serious crimes. These included alleged links to a series of car arsons in Or Akiva, a shooting incident at a businessman's home in Hadera, and another shooting in Or Akiva that injured a bystander. However, he was frequently released without charges due to insufficient evidence.

The assassination occurred on August 23, with surveillance footage showing the killer waiting for Yushvaev near the snack bar's exit. The assailant shot Yushvaev in the head as he turned his back, from what appeared to be point-blank range.