Israeli Police Arrest Main Suspect in Benyahu Razi Murder After Extensive Manhunt

Three weeks after the stabbing murder of 19-year-old Benyahu Razi in Jerusalem's Nahalat neighborhood, Israeli police apprehended the main suspect, 17-year-old Aviaor Sasson. Sasson had been hiding for two and a half weeks in safe houses across northern and central Israel. He was arrested on Tuesday while traveling by taxi near the Arzaim Tunnel at Jerusalem's entrance, following a prolonged police surveillance operation.

The investigation, led by the Jerusalem District Crime Fighting Unit, involved more than fifteen interrogations and twelve arrests, including minors. About half of those detained are expected to face serious murder charges. The murder occurred after a violent altercation at a Nahalat apartment where Razi and his friend were attacked. Razi's friend, who was injured, called emergency services but Razi succumbed to his wounds.

Police investigations revealed that two women, Agam Tzarfati and Shilat Huta, who had a troubled history with Razi including mutual restraining orders, allegedly orchestrated the murder. They reportedly incited four minors, including Sasson, to exact revenge after claiming they were assaulted by Razi and his friend. The women fled the apartment after the attack and contacted a relative, Dudi Keren, who police believe helped facilitate the violent retaliation.

Linor Sasson, mother of Aviaor and previously convicted for extortion-related crimes, is suspected of mediating the murder plot and transporting the women to the scene. Evidence includes video footage showing the attack and messages from Agam threatening Razi. The murder weapon was not recovered, but another knife was found at the scene.

Following the arrest of Sasson, seven suspects remain in custody, including minors and adults. The police continue to gather evidence and expect to file indictments soon. The case is notable for its complexity, involving multiple suspects, minors, and a high level of violence. Police emphasized their commitment to bringing all involved to justice, with the prosecution to determine the exact charges against the main suspects.