Graffiti on monastery walls
Photo: Ohad Zwigenberg
Suspect arrested in Latrun Monastery arson
Undercover investigation leads to 22-year-old Bnei Brak man suspected of torching, vandalizing monastery last September
Nearly a year after the Latrun Monastery
was torched and vandalized police have arrested a 22-year-old Bnei Brak
man in connection with the case.
Last September, vandals set fire to the entrance door of the Latrun Monastery and spray-painted slogans against the Christian religion on its walls, including names of West Bank outposts and "Jesus is a monkey".
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The vandalism was widely condemned by Israel's leaders.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denounced the act: "This was a heinous act whose perpetrators must be punished. The freedom of religion and the freedom of worship are among Israel's most important principles," he said.
Police at Latrun Monastery (Photo: Ohad Zwigenberg)
Photo: Ohad Zwigenberg
At the time, Jerusalem Police launched an investigation together with the Shin Bet. The case was later turned over to the Police's International Crime Investigations Unit which handles "price tag" crimes.
An undercover investigation ultimately led to a Bnei Brak resident who police believe committed the act together with friends. He is suspected of destruction of property and conspiracy to commit a crime.
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