Security Chaos and Proliferation of Small Arms

Armed Personal and Clan Disputes

Field Update

9 Jul 2006

Bystander Killed during Armed Clan Clash

Ibrahim Taher Mousa Sha’at, a 34-year-old resident of Khan Yunis, was killed last Thursday, while he was in an area where an armed clash was taking place.

PCHR’s preliminary investigation indicates that at approximately 18:00 on Thursday, 6 July 2006, a clash erupted between members of the El-Masri clan in Khan Yunis.  The clash took place at the intersection of Jamal Abdel Naser Street and Jala’ Street in the center the city.  The victim attempted to prevent those involved in the clash from coming near his clothes store.  He was hit by a bullet to the back that penetrated to his chest.  He was taken to Naser Hospital for treatment, where he later died later that evening.

PCHR is extremely worried over the continued security chaos involving the use of arms in personal and clan disputes.  The Centre strongly condemns these crimes that are taking place at a critical time for the Palestinian people in light of the current Israeli military operation against the Gaza Strip.  The Centre calls upon the PNA, represented by the Attorney-General, to investigate these incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice.