Israeli Police Arrest Main Suspect in Jerusalem Stabbing Murder After Extensive Manhunt

Israeli police arrested 17-year-old Abiyor Sasson, the primary suspect in the stabbing murder of Benyahu Razi, which occurred on July 11 in a short-term rental apartment in Jerusalem's Nahalat neighborhood. The arrest followed a manhunt lasting over two weeks, during which Sasson was on the run and reportedly hid in various locations across central and northern Israel. The Jerusalem District Commander, Commissioner Avshalom Peled, directed the use of all available police resources, including the Central Unit and aerial support, to locate and apprehend Sasson. He was detained today while traveling by taxi near the Harel Tunnel at the entrance to Jerusalem.

Following his arrest, Sasson was transferred for interrogation to the Crime Fighting Unit of the Zion District and is expected to appear in the Magistrate's Court for a detention extension hearing. Last week, police released Sasson's photo and details to the public seeking assistance in locating him. Sasson's mother, Linor Sasson, is also in custody on suspicions of involvement in planning the murder, aiding after the fact, and obstructing the investigation, allegedly from her home.

In a related development, a 34-year-old Israel Prison Service officer from Hod Hasharon was arrested on suspicion of obstructing justice and breach of trust. She is suspected of collaborating with Sasson's incarcerated brother to help the suspect evade capture. The investigation into the officer began after receiving information from the Prison Service. She denies the allegations, stating she met Sasson only once in a professional context and had no further contact.