Molotov Cocktail and Grenade Attacks Target Japanika Stores in Netanya and Afula Amid Criminal Feud

Two Japanika chain stores were attacked overnight between Monday and Tuesday in Netanya and Afula, both incidents linked to ongoing criminal conflicts. In Netanya, a stolen military-grade incendiary device, identified as a Molotov cocktail, was thrown at the branch on Giborei Israel Street, causing a fire and property damage but no injuries. Police and fire crews responded promptly, and an investigation has been launched, with authorities treating the incident as part of a continuing feud between rival criminal groups.

Shortly after, in the industrial area of Afula, a grenade was thrown at another Japanika store. Again, no casualties were reported, but property damage occurred. Police are investigating this attack under the same criminal dispute context.

The violence is connected to a feud between two major crime organizations: the Geroushi group, linked to some Japanika branches in the Tel Aviv area, and the Musli brothers, prominent figures in the Musli crime family. The conflict has escalated recently, with retaliatory attacks targeting stores owned by Avramov, who is caught in the middle of this gang rivalry. Last Saturday night, gunfire was directed at a Japanika store in Raanana, believed to be part of this ongoing vendetta. Police suspect that the Geroushi group responded by throwing grenades at a wholesale market in Rishon Lezion associated with the Musli brothers.

Authorities continue to collect evidence and pursue leads as the criminal feud intensifies, with Japanika stores becoming frequent targets of violent attacks.