Israeli Police Detain Crime Figures After Grenade Attacks on Jafnika Chain Amid Gang Feud

Israeli police brought Yossi Musli, head of a crime organization, and three others to Tel Aviv Magistrate's Court on Wednesday following a series of grenade attacks targeting multiple branches of the Jafnika chain nationwide. Authorities plan to extend their detention by eight days. A representative of the organization warned in court that "we are on alert across the country, and everyone is connected." The latest attack occurred overnight in Rosh Pina, where a grenade caused damage to a Jafnika store, including shattered glass.

These arrests come amid an unusual wave of criminal assaults over recent days, with at least 13 incidents involving grenades thrown at businesses and residences. Attacks targeted Jafnika branches in Ramat Gan, Kiryat Ono, Afula, Netanya, and Herzliya, where shots were fired, and an arson attempt was made at a Givatayim branch. Despite the arrests, the attacks continued, with the recent grenade in Rosh Pina causing property damage.

Police are investigating links between these assaults and an ongoing feud between the Musli and Jarushi families. Barak Abramov, owner of Jafnika and Beitar Jerusalem football club, became embroiled in the conflict after shifting alliances from the Musli brothers to the Jarushi family. He has been questioned by police, who believe the attacks on Jafnika outlets are messages within this gang rivalry.

The Musli family, originating from South Tel Aviv neighborhoods, is considered one of the strongest Jewish crime organizations, historically involved in illegal gambling, loan sharking, and extortion. Recently, they have expanded into cryptocurrency and ostensibly legitimate businesses. The conflict reportedly escalated after the Musli family transferred control of betting operations to Eran Hay, angering the Jarushi faction.

Abramov controls Jafnika through the Landora group, which owns other restaurant brands. In May, he sold 20% of the group to Leumi Partners for about 200 million shekels and planned a stock market listing for Jafnika. However, due to the recent attacks, the IPO has been postponed for now.