Ayel Nagar Arrested as Head of Crime Syndicate Controlling Ashdod

Ayel Nagar, identified as the leader of a criminal organization in southern Israel, was arrested Tuesday morning in Ashdod. He was brought before the court for an extension of his detention on suspicions of extortion and taking control over restaurants, distribution, and delivery networks in Ashdod. Nagar is known as the successor to the late crime boss Beni Shlomo, whose organization disbanded after his murder. Following Shlomo's death, Nagar made an unprecedented alliance with Shlomo's sworn enemies, the Lavi brothers, a pact that remains intact today.

This alliance caused internal conflicts, with some former members of Shlomo's group labeling Nagar a traitor, sparking violent power struggles. About six weeks ago, police thwarted an assassination attempt against Nagar by defusing an explosive device found in his car. Over recent years, Nagar has solidified his criminal dominance in Ashdod, a city noted for its significant illicit profits. Police sources indicate that Nagar's criminal activities include extortion, loan sharking, and other illegal enterprises.

Authorities believe that the arrest of Nagar and his associates will disrupt his efforts to control Ashdod and the Lachish region. Nagar's lawyer, Ness Ben Natan, stated that Nagar denies all allegations against him. Currently, Nagar is undergoing a court hearing for the extension of his detention.