Police in Shfaram Tuesday night
Photo: Shai Vaknin
Man suspected of circulating anti-Druze video arrested
Rumors of video showing Druze spiritual leader Amin Tarif's head attached to a pig's body sparked clashes between Druze, Christian youths in Shfaram; suspect accused of incitement, denies allegations
A 20-year-old man has been arrested for suspicion of being involved in the preparation and distribution of a video that sparked Tuesday night's clashes between Christian and Druze youth in Shfaram.
The fighting broke out in the northern town following a rumor that circulated in the northern town according to which a video dishonoring the memory of the late Druze spiritual leader Amin Tarif had been posted on the internet. The video reportedly shows Tarif's head attached to a pig's body.
During the riots a police vehicle was hit by 10 bullets. Officers responded to the fire with stun grenades. Backup forces were later called to the scene to help restore order.
According to eyewitnesses, shots were fired in the air and several cars were torched in the course of the clashes. No injuries were reported.
The suspect, who is accused of incitement, was interrogated by investigators from Lahav 433, the Israel Police's new crime-fighting unit. His attorney denied the allegations.
"My client is denying any connection to the affair," Public Defender Guy Gur told Ynet.
