Four Israeli Police Officers Called for Hearing Over Violent Arrest of Beersheba Lawyer

About two months after a violent arrest of a lawyer in Beersheba sparked public outrage, the Israeli Police Investigations Department (Mahash) announced on Sunday that it has summoned four police officers for a hearing prior to potential indictment. The incident occurred on May 2, 2026, at a Beersheba apartment, where the officers are suspected of unlawfully assaulting Salah Naama. According to Mahash, each of the four officers is suspected of involvement in the attack to varying degrees.

The charges under consideration include criminal indictments against two officers for assault and causing serious injury, pending the hearing. Additionally, three officers face possible charges related to obstruction of justice. The case emerged after social media footage showed the arrest of three men in their 30s, including a lawyer and a doctor, following a noise complaint. The video depicted one suspect bleeding and with facial injuries, while his family claimed the police used excessive force without justification inside his home.

Police initially rejected these allegations, stating the officers were responding to a noise complaint and were attacked by the suspects who resisted arrest and used threats and insults. Police sources described the released footage as selective, capturing only the final moments after one officer broke his hand and a female officer suffered a concussion during the confrontation.

The footage triggered widespread public criticism, with the Israel Bar Association condemning the incident and demanding a thorough investigation and accountability if unjustified violence was confirmed. Mahash’s announcement marks a significant development as it is the first time criminal charges against some officers are being seriously considered. The final decision on indictments will follow the officers’ hearings.