Officer's car torched
Photo: Raanan Ben-Zur
Did rightists torch cop's car?
West Bank police intelligence officer who handled suspects associated with evacuation of Amona and other illegal outposts woken up by neighbors overnight, told his vehicle on fire. Police had information about intention to hurt officer
Another police officer's car torched: A vehicle belonging to a senior police officer in the northern West Bank was set on fire overnight in what police believe was an act of vandalism by right-wing activists seeking revenge for the evacuation of the illegal outpost of Amona.
As it turned out, the vandalized Mazda belongs to Haim Padalon, who resides in the town and serves as an investigations and intelligence police officer. Padalon has been serving in the Samaria area for many years now, and among other duties deals with right-wing activists.
Neighbors in the town of Hadera, north of Tel Aviv, noticed a vehicle on fire at the side of the road around 3 a.m. Friday. The residents called firefighters and at the same time knocked on the door of the house the car was parked next to in order to inform the owners.
Police Targeted
Eli Senyor
Brigadier General Meir Bokovza subject to threats by right-wing activists ever since leading evacuation of West Bank outpost; despite special security arrangements, officer's car set on fire Tuesday night by unknown assailant
Intelligence information
Padalon also took part in investigations involving suspects from the Amona outpost evacuation as well as other illegal West Bank outposts. During the disengagement, relatives of boys and girls detained by police over anti-pullout protests voiced complaints about police handling of their children, including complaints against Padalon himself.
Police officials possessed intelligence information regarding intentions to hurt or harass Padalon over his work and the evacuation of Amona. As a result, police officers boosted patrols near Padalon's home, but to not avail. In recent days, more indications were received that the officer was in danger of being targeted.
Firefighters dispatched to the scene contained the blaze. The vehicle was damaged but equipment inside the car remained intact.
About a month ago, a vehicle belonging to the Judea and Samaria Police deputy commander was also torched and completely burned. Police officials estimated the incident was an act of revenge for the evacuation of Amona.
