Umm Al-Fahm Mayor Demands Independent Probe Into Fatal Police Shooting

The mayor of Umm Al-Fahm, Dr. Samir Mahamid, stated that the city cannot rely solely on the police investigation into the killing of Alaa Mahamid, calling for an independent investigative committee. This demand arises amid conflicting accounts of the incident. Police claim border police officers opened fire when Mahamid attacked an officer during an attempted arrest. However, local sources and circulated video footage suggest Mahamid was shot after being apprehended.

Mahamid told Ashams Radio that the available video evidence, which he reviewed, is clear and necessitates an independent professional examination. He noted the footage was obtained from surveillance cameras, not released by the police. The mayor emphasized the city's demand for an independent committee, ideally including a judge and a representative of Mahamid's family, to investigate all aspects of the case. The municipality is following up with officials but has received no details beyond confirmation of an ongoing investigation.

The officer who shot Mahamid was reportedly investigated by the Police Investigations Department and placed under house arrest for five days. Regarding the body, Mayor Mahamid confirmed he was in contact with authorities and that procedures to release the body from Abu Kabir Forensic Institute were expected to conclude soon. The funeral date will be set in coordination with the family, who have appointed a local lawyer to handle legal proceedings and investigations.