East Jerusalem Man Suspected of Kidnapping, Murder Over Debt

Police have identified a 60-year-old East Jerusalem resident, Saleh Othman, as the primary suspect in the kidnapping and murder of Fatma Rajabi, also from East Jerusalem. The investigation suggests a financial motive, with Othman allegedly owing Rajabi tens of thousands of shekels. According to investigators, Othman knew Rajabi prior to the incident. He is suspected of abducting her, murdering her, and then disposing of her body near his home in the A-Tur neighborhood.

New footage obtained by i24NEWS shows Othman allegedly using Rajabi's credit card to withdraw cash shortly after her murder. The last known footage of Rajabi shows her entering Othman's work vehicle, a van he used as a technician. This detail was crucial in helping investigators identify Othman.

Othman reportedly confessed to the crimes and reenacted the murder during his interrogation. He also claimed to have been intoxicated at the time of the murder. After five days of searching for Rajabi, Othman surrendered himself to the police. His detention has been extended as the investigation continues.