Security Chaos and Proliferation of Small Arms

Misuse of Weapons by Armed Groups and Security Forces

Field Update

6 Jul 2006

2 Members of Izzedeen El-Qassam Battalions Killed in a Mysterious Explosion Gaza City

At approximately 13:10 on Wednesday, 5 July 2006, two Palestinians were killed in a mysterious explosion in a house located in the densely-populated Zaitoon Quarter in Gaza City. PCHR’s preliminary investigation indicates that both were members of Izzedeen El-Qassam Battalions, the armed wing of Hamas. It is believed that they were preparing an explosive device that detonated by mistake. The explosion killed them instantly, and tore their bodies apart. It was difficult to recognize them immediately after the explosion.

Sources at Shifa Hospital in Gaza informed PCHR’s fieldworker that the two dead Palestinians are from Zaitoon Quarter in Gaza City:

–         Ammar Arafat H’jazi (24); and

–         Ahmad Kamal El-Wasaifi (22)

PCHR is concerned over the continued falling of victims by the misuse of weapon or storing weapons in civilian areas, which falls under the security chaos plaguing the Occupied Palestinian Territory. The Centre calls upon the PNA, represented by the Attorney-General, to investigate these incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice.