Suspect named in Jerusalem baby-food contamination case

Police have named Yan Shemla as the suspect arrested over suspected deliberate contamination of baby fruit-puree jars with sedative drugs in Jerusalem.

Shemla, a resident of southern Israel, was arrested at his home on Monday after police said they had made a breakthrough in the investigation. Officers searched the property before taking him in for questioning.

Police suspect that sedative substances were inserted into Prinok fruit-puree jars sold at two Zol Begadol supermarket branches on Jaffa Street. Investigators are examining allegations including the use of poison in a way that could endanger life, theft and negligent handling of medication.

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The Jerusalem Magistrate’s Court extended Shemla’s detention until September 6 on Tuesday, saying the investigative material established a “significant” reasonable suspicion of his involvement. The court initially permitted publication of his name, but temporarily delayed the decision after his lawyer requested time to consider an appeal. His identity was released on Wednesday morning.

Shemla is represented through the Public Defender’s Office by attorney Zecharia Shenkolevsky. “The investigation is in its early stages, and we expect it to be conducted while protecting his rights, certainly in light of his medical circumstances,” Shenkolevsky said. He added that Shemla was cooperating with investigators.

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The investigation is in its early stages, and we expect it to be conducted while protecting his rights, certainly in light of his medical circumstances.