Umm Al-Fahm Demands Independent Probe Into Police Killing of Resident

The mayor of Umm Al-Fahm, Dr. Samir Mahamid, stated that the city cannot rely solely on the police investigation into the killing of Ala Mahamid and is demanding the formation of an independent investigative committee. This call comes amid conflicting accounts of the incident. Police claim their border police forces shot Mahamid during an arrest attempt after he attacked an officer. However, local sources and a circulated video contradict this, suggesting the shooting occurred after Mahamid had already been apprehended.

Mahamid told Radio Al-Shams that the available video evidence, which he has reviewed, is clear and necessitates an independent professional examination. He noted that the police did not release the footage, but it was obtained from surveillance cameras at a local business or residence.

The mayor emphasized that the city's demand is for an independent committee, ideally including a judge and a representative of the Mahamid family, to examine all aspects of the case. The municipality is following up with official bodies but has only received confirmation that an investigation is underway, without details on its progress or findings.

Reports indicate the officer involved in the shooting was questioned by the Police Investigations Department and subsequently placed under five days of house arrest. Regarding the body, Mayor Mahamid confirmed he was in contact with officials and expects the release of the body from Abu Kabir forensic institute soon. The funeral date will be set in coordination with the family, and the municipality is urging broad public participation to honor the deceased. The family has appointed a local lawyer to handle legal proceedings and investigations.