Seven Charged in Preplanned Killing of Benyahu Razi in Jerusalem

New details emerged from indictments filed against seven suspects involved in the July 11 murder of Benyahu Razi in Jerusalem. According to the prosecution, minutes before Razi was fatally stabbed, he was led into an apartment where he was surrounded by a group of youths armed with sticks, knives, and other weapons. They demanded he explain why he allegedly assaulted his partner, Agam Sarfi. A video call from inside the apartment was streamed to Sarfi and Linor Sasson, mother of one of the accused, who were waiting outside in a car. Shortly after, two youths signaled each other, and the group attacked Razi, stabbing and beating him until he died from a chest wound.

The Jerusalem District Attorney filed two indictments against seven suspects: six males aged 15 to 20, including four minors, Agam Sarfi (19) from Jerusalem, and Shilat Huta (20) from Beersheba, charged with intentional murder and aggravated assault. One minor, Aviaor Sasson (17), fled after the murder but was later arrested. Linor Sasson (46), mother of Aviaor, faces charges of aiding and obstructing justice. The prosecution requested all remain in custody until trial.

Razi’s mother, Dikla Razi, condemned the accused, calling for life imprisonment despite their minor status, emphasizing their full responsibility. She described the suspects as dangerous and premeditated in their actions, expressing fear of Linor Sasson and requesting protection if she is released. The investigation revealed that Sarfi and Huta had rented an apartment days before, inviting Razi and a friend to spend the weekend. After a dispute and claims of violence by Razi, Sarfi and Huta informed Sasson and the minors, who then planned the attack.

On the day of the murder, the group armed themselves with knives, a metal stick, razors, and a meat tenderizer. They drove to the apartment, confronted Razi and his friend, and lured them inside. The confrontation escalated, with Razi denying assaulting Sarfi and showing bite marks on his back. After a signal, the group violently attacked him, stabbing him in the chest and causing fatal injuries. His friend was also assaulted but survived.

Six suspects were arrested quickly; Aviaor Sasson evaded capture for over two weeks. The investigation uncovered that his brother, an inmate, allegedly helped him escape using a prison officer’s phone. The prosecution highlighted the severe consequences of group violence involving minors and adults, resulting in a tragic loss of life. Defense attorneys for one minor described the incident as unplanned and denied direct involvement in Razi’s death, awaiting full case materials to present their defense.