Security Chaos and Proliferation of Small Arms

Misuse of Arms in Clan and Personal Disputes

Field Update

26 February 2006

Civilian killed during a Clan Dispute in Khan Yunis

Rami Mohammad Abu Hadayed, 31 years old and from Khan Yunis, was killed on Thursday, 23 February 2006, during a clan dispute.

PCHR’s initial investigation indicates that at approximately 13:30 on 23 February 2006, an armed group intercepted a black “Skoda” traveling along Salah E’Deen Road, near the eastern cemetery in Khan Yunis.  The gunmen fired at the driver, Abu Hadayed, and hit him in the chest, abdomen and legs.  They fled the area in a white car.  The victim was taken, in a serious condition, to the European Hospital in Khan Yunis.  Efforts to save his life failed and he was pronounced dead approximately 90 minutes after arrival.

A number of gunmen from the Abu Hadayed clan chased gunmen in a car in Seiqali Street in Khan Yunis.  There was an exchange of fire but no injuries were reported.  It is noted that this incident is a continuation of an armed clash between clans, which dates back to December 2005.

PCHR expresses concern over the continuing escalation in armed clashes between clans, which is part of the ongoing problems with security chaos and proliferation of small arms.  The Centre calls upon the Palestinian National Authority (PNA), represented by the Attorney-General, to investigate these crimes and to bring the perpetrators to justice.