Lawyer Recalls Near-Miss on Day of Yakov Alfrun's Assassination

Yaniv Segev, the lawyer and confidant of the late Yakov Alfrun, a prominent figure in Israel's crime world, has spoken about the day Alfrun was assassinated nearly 18 years ago. Segev revealed that he was supposed to be traveling with Alfrun on the day of the murder but changed his plans at the last minute due to the arrest of two of Alfrun's close associates. Segev believes this turn of events likely saved his life.

Segev described Alfrun as a unique gentleman, both professionally and personally, possessing an exceptional ability to read and interact with people. Despite Alfrun's fearsome reputation, Segev portrayed him as a considerate individual who treated everyone with respect. He recounted how Alfrun would open doors for women and interact courteously with judges, prosecutors, and police officers.

Segev dismissed rumors that Alfrun was hiding or altering his behavior on the day he was killed, stating he was with Alfrun in court all day and was meant to travel with him afterward. Alfrun had asked Segev to handle matters for his arrested friends and meet him later at his home for a payment. Segev's plan to meet Alfrun later was canceled due to the arrests, which he believes saved him.

Regarding Alfrun's lack of security despite his high-profile conflicts, Segev suggested it stemmed from Alfrun's sense of security and his assessment of risks. Alfrun apparently did not believe he was in immediate mortal danger. Segev recalled an incident where a bomb was found under Alfrun's car in Ra'anana, but Alfrun did not significantly change his behavior or adopt a consistent security routine, indicating he didn't feel he was in a state of "defense or war."

Segev also shared a deep personal connection with Alfrun, crediting him with shaping his professional principles as a lawyer. He described Alfrun's meticulous guidance on how to interact with judges and prosecutors, emphasizing the psychology and effect behind their words. Segev noted that Alfrun, contrary to his public image, was a reserved person who rarely raised his voice, even when angry. Segev still keeps Alfrun's phone numbers, emphasizing how much he is missed even after nearly two decades.