Pharmacist Closes Sakhneen Pharmacy After Over 50 Bullets Fired Over Extortion Demand

Pharmacist Awad Zubaidat from Sakhneen decided to close his pharmacy, Al-Farmashani, after more than 50 bullets were fired at the business in two separate incidents within one month. Zubaidat reported that unknown assailants targeted the pharmacy after he refused to pay extortion fees exceeding 200,000 shekels. The first shooting occurred about a month ago, and despite initial confusion about the motive, Zubaidat continued operating the pharmacy amid growing fear.

Weeks later, he began receiving phone calls demanding high protection payments, which he refused to pay. Following his refusal, the attackers fired at the pharmacy again. Due to the ongoing threats and damage, Zubaidat announced an open strike and the closure of his business in protest. He emphasized his inability to pay any extortion money, noting he had invested heavily to establish the pharmacy two years ago and worked tirelessly to build a future for himself and his wife.

Zubaidat also mentioned that customers became reluctant to visit after hearing about the shootings, and he expressed disappointment that the police have yet to apprehend the perpetrators. The police confirmed an investigation is ongoing. Zubaidat called on the community to stand firm against extortion and not to yield to such criminal demands.