Jerusalem Firebomb Arrest: Two Minors Caught with Molotovs

Catching the suspects (Video: Israel Police)

A targeted patrol by officers from Jerusalem's Oz police station led to the prevention of a potential attack in the Arnona neighborhood. Two minors, residents of the Pisgat Ze'ev area, were taken into custody after being found masked and in possession of firebombs, Jerusalem police announced Tuesday.

The incident unfolded on Tisha B'Av, when Oz station officers were conducting operational activity in Arnona. During their patrol, the officers noticed two young suspects whose faces were covered, making them immediately suspicious,

When the suspects noticed the police vehicle, they quickly threw a bag into nearby bushes. Officers searched the area and discovered two glass bottles suspected to be Molotov cocktails inside and near the discarded bag.

The two minors from Pisgat Ze'ev were arrested at the scene and taken to Oz station for questioning. They were initially brought before a court, which ordered their release under restrictive conditions.

Following an intensive investigation, authorities built a solid evidentiary foundation against the two suspects. Based on the evidence gathered, prosecutors yesterday filed a charging declaration against both minors, who are currently under house arrest, ahead of formal indictment proceedings.

The case adds to a series of similar incidents that have occurred in recent months across Jerusalem and the Judea and Samaria region. Just months ago, seven suspects were arrested in the Gush Etzion area for involvement in throwing firebombs and stones, following an extended intelligence operation by security forces.

In another recent incident in Samaria, three Palestinians were arrested after throwing firebombs at a Border Police base. The suspects fled and changed clothing in an attempt to obscure their identities, but were apprehended the same night thanks to precise intelligence work and the use of technological tools.