Three Indicted in Failed Assassination Attempt in Ashdod After Bomb Detonates on Road

Three suspects have been indicted in connection with a failed assassination attempt in Ashdod, Israel. The indictment, filed at the Beersheba District Court, names Matan Arviv (29) from Hadera, Evitar Zerach Yaakobi (34) from Rosh HaAyin, and Netai Legami (22) from Malad. They face charges including attempted murder, weapons possession, obstruction of justice, and damage with explosives.

According to the indictment, the suspects were involved in a prolonged criminal dispute. They used tracking devices to monitor the target’s vehicles and attached an explosive device underneath one of the target’s cars on July 1. The bomb was remotely detonated about two minutes after it accidentally fell onto the road during the target’s drive, causing a massive explosion that created a crater, damaged nearby vehicles and buildings, and injured several residents with ear trauma.

Following the blast, Legami and an accomplice fled to Tira Yehuda, where Arviv, Yaakobi, and others awaited. Police raids led to the arrest of Legami and Yaakobi, while Arviv initially escaped. Investigations revealed attempts to destroy evidence by burning items used in the crime near Yaakobi’s home.

Police emphasized the high danger posed by the suspects, noting the potential for deadly consequences in a densely populated area. Shahar Levi, commander of the Lahish District Police, praised the investigative team for their professional and determined work in bringing the suspects to justice and vowed to continue combating violent crime with all available resources.