Charges Expected Against Suspect in Arson of Elad Mayor's Aide's Car

An indictment is expected to be filed on Monday against a suspect in the arson of the vehicle belonging to the director of the Elad Mayor's office, i24NEWS reported Saturday. The investigation by the Sharon District Police has gathered evidence, including the suspect's clothing, burns on his legs, and findings from investigative exercises, allegedly linking him to the crime. Police suspect the motive for the arson was retaliation after the Elad Municipality demanded the closure of an illegal business operated by the suspect and his brother. The second brother, also arrested in connection with the case, has been released to house arrest and faces charges of threats. Meanwhile, the investigation into a stun grenade thrown at the home of the Elad Municipality Director has determined that neither of the brothers is the perpetrator, and the individual responsible has not yet been apprehended. The investigation began following two incidents targeting senior city officials: the stun grenade attack and the car arson. Police had been exploring a connection between these events and the municipality's efforts to shut down an illegal business run by brothers Gabriel and Rami Shalom, who have prior criminal records. While one brother provided an alibi, the other invoked his right to remain silent. The case is now expected to split, with one brother facing charges for the car arson and the other for threats, while the search for the stun grenade thrower continues. The Elad Municipality stated, "We will not be deterred by criminal elements attempting to intimidate residents."