Jerusalem Court Extends Detention of Seven Suspects in Benyahu Razi Murder Case

A heated scene unfolded Thursday morning at the Jerusalem Magistrate's Court during a hearing to extend the detention of seven suspects accused in the brutal murder of 19-year-old Benyahu Razi. The court extended the detention of all suspects, four minors and three adults, until Friday, when the prosecution is expected to file formal indictments. Upon entering the courtroom, Razi's family members shouted angrily at the suspects, with the victim's mother confronting the female suspects, accusing them of causing her son's death.

The murder occurred last month in a guest apartment in the Nahalat neighborhood of Jerusalem. Razi, a resident of Givat Ze'ev, was with a friend and two young women when a group of youths, allegedly summoned by the mother of one suspect, arrived and violently attacked Razi and his friend. Razi died from stab wounds, while his friend was injured. The main suspect, a 17-year-old minor, was arrested after a two-and-a-half-week manhunt, caught in the Harel Tunnel en route to Jerusalem.

During the hearing, police presented incriminating evidence including text messages indicating premeditation, such as one message stating "he dies today." Authorities emphasized that although the female suspects did not physically stab Razi, they orchestrated the attack and encouraged the perpetrators via live video. Investigations also revealed attempts by two suspects to coerce a minor relative to take responsibility for the crime, which the minor refused.

Additionally, a prison service officer was arrested on suspicion of obstructing the investigation by aiding the main suspect's brother, who helped the suspect hide during his flight from police. The main suspect claimed self-defense during interrogation, but police rejected this version as inconsistent with the evidence. Defense attorneys for one minor expressed sorrow over the tragedy and denied direct involvement in Razi's death.

The court's decision to extend detention allows the prosecution time to prepare formal charges, expected by Friday. Further updates will follow as the case develops.