Barak Abramov in the crosshairs: Developments in the 'Japanika' arson case
Police have identified the suspects arrested for the arson of a restaurant in Givatayim, linking the incident to a broader wave of violent criminal disputes across the country.
As part of the ongoing crackdown on organized crime, the Central Unit of the Tel Aviv District Police has concluded its investigation into the arson attack at a 'Japanika' restaurant in Givatayim, which occurred in the early hours of July 12.
According to investigators, at approximately 04:00, two masked suspects arrived on a two-wheeled vehicle at the restaurant, which is part of a chain owned by businessman and Beitar Jerusalem owner Barak Abramov. The suspects poured flammable liquid at the entrance, set the building on fire, and fled the scene. The arson caused structural and property damage, but no injuries were reported.
Evidence gathered during the investigation indicates that the attack stems from ongoing struggles between criminal organizations, which have been a primary driver of violent incidents across the country recently. Using advanced technological tools, investigators were able to track the perpetrators and identify them despite their attempts to evade detection.
On July 27, an 18-year-old resident of Rehovot was arrested, followed by the arrest of a second 18-year-old suspect from the same city a few days later. Searches of their homes yielded evidence and clothing linking them to the crime.
The court repeatedly extended the suspects' detention. On Tuesday, following the completion of the investigation, prosecutor's statements were filed in preparation for formal indictments. This case is being linked to a separate incident involving a grenade attack at a 'Japanika' branch in Kiryat Ono.
