The Israel Police have arrested an Ashdod resident for questioning, after suspicions arose that over the past few months he had been acting to extort money from a business owner in the city of Ashdod through threats. This was suspected of being done by setting fire to the business and his vehicle.
Up to 65% discount: The annual book fair of the 'Rav Kook Institute' returns in a big way
Over the past few months, Ashdod police investigators have been conducting an investigation following two arson incidents that occurred in the city of Ashdod: the first on November 26, 2020, in which a 'bakery' in the city was set on fire, as well as another arson incident that occurred on December 11, 2020, in which the bakery owner's car was set on fire by a person whose identity was unknown to the police.
Want more news, videos and stories? Join the Haredim 10 WhatsApp channel >>
In addition, during these months, the business owner received threats on several occasions via telephone, allegedly from the same suspect, who even met with him and allegedly demanded that he hand over tens of thousands of shekels.
Police investigators collected evidence and findings, using a wide variety of investigative measures and operations, which led to the identification of the suspect - a 60-year-old from Ashdod - and his arrest on April 1, 2021 on suspicion of crimes of extortion through threats, threats, arson of a vehicle and arson of a building.
The suspect's detention was extended last Friday in the Magistrate's Court, until 8.4.21.
