The Southern District Attorney's Office has filed a criminal indictment with the Be'er Sheva District Court against 12 Israel Prison Service (IPS) officers regarding a severe incident that occurred in November 2023 at Ktzi'ot Prison. According to the report, the incident involves the death of security prisoner Thaer Abu Assab and the assault of eight additional prisoners held in the same cell. The indictment, filed by Adv. Tal Cohen Adir, details an irregular sequence of events leading to the prisoner's death.
According to the indictment, the shift commander at the complex briefed the force, which included 'Keter' unit fighters and a K-9 handler, after learning that prisoner Abu Assab had asked a question regarding a ceasefire in the war. It is alleged that the commander ordered the defendants to enter the cell during the evening count to clarify their stance, stating he would take responsibility for the outcome while warning female guards not to enter. Upon entering, the indictment alleges that the defendants began striking the prisoners with fists, kicks, and batons, with the shift commander actively participating in the assault. Minutes later, the force exited without reporting the incident.
Shortly thereafter, prisoner Abu Assab lost consciousness and was evacuated to Soroka Hospital, where his death was declared. The expert opinions detailed in the indictment attribute his death to the blows sustained, which caused severe damage to his heart and respiratory system. The eight other prisoners suffered various bodily injuries. In addition to assault charges, the shift commander and the shift sergeant face charges of witness tampering. According to the prosecution, they attempted to influence other guards' testimonies by directing them to provide false accounts regarding the use of force. One guard, who initially provided an incorrect version, later recanted and recounted the events as they occurred.
This is a large-scale case involving charges of manslaughter, aggravated assault under aggravating circumstances, and multiple counts of causing bodily harm. The legal proceedings in the District Court will examine the facts in depth to determine the criminal liability of those involved.