Israeli Court Extends Detention of Ultra-Orthodox Man Suspected of Ramat Gan Cafe Arson

The Tel Aviv Magistrate's Court extended by five days the detention of a 23-year-old resident of Beitar Illit suspected of setting fire to the "Benedicta" cafe in Ramat Gan on July 1. Authorities are investigating his possible involvement in previous arson attempts at the cafe over the past two months, but so far he is only formally charged with the latest incident. Another 19-year-old from Beitar Illit was also arrested on suspicion of involvement.

The July 1 fire caused significant damage to the cafe's windows and structure. The business owners believe the attacks are motivated by the cafe's operation on the Sabbath. Shaf's husband, one of the owners, described the distress caused by repeated arson attempts, including a recent fire on the shop's side and the latest attack on the front.

Police stated the investigation is complex and supported by the prosecution, with substantial evidence linking the suspect not only to the arson itself but also to its planning and preparation. They confirmed physical evidence connects the suspect and his vehicle to the crime, and additional suspects have been identified with arrest warrants issued.

The suspect's defense attorney, Legal Yehzakeli from the Public Defender's Office, argued that the man suffers from paranoid schizophrenia and autism, with a history of psychiatric hospitalizations and no current treatment. She claimed his mental condition made him vulnerable to exploitation by criminals. The defense requested his release or at least a one-day detention extension for a psychiatric evaluation.

Judge Miri Hart Ritz ruled that there is strong reasonable suspicion against the suspect and that ongoing investigative actions could be compromised if he is released. While acknowledging his psychiatric condition, the judge decided it does not justify alternative measures at this early stage due to the investigation's infancy and the risk he poses.