Security Chaos and Proliferation of Small Arms

Clashes between Armed Groups and Security Forces

Field Update

1 August 2006

Fatah Member Injured by Gunmen in Bani Suheila

Nafith Ismail Ahmad El-Breim, a 31-year old resident of Bani Suheila (east of Khan Yunis) was shot and injured by unknown gunmen in the town of Bani Suheila. He works as an administrative employee in the Ministry of Health primary healthcare clinic in the town.

PCHR’s preliminary investigation indicates that at approximately 16:30 on Monday, 31 July 2006, a number of masked gunmen in 2 cars intercepted the car in which El-Briem was riding in the main street in Bani Suheila. They forced the car to stop. The gunmen got out of their cars and shot at El-Breim while he was inside his car. He sustained serious injuries. The gunmen fled the scene. And El-Breim was taken to Naser Hospital in Khan Yunis, where was admitted to the intensive care unit due to the severity of his injuries.

PCHR strongly condemns the continued use of arms by armed individuals and groups, which has become prominent feature of the ongoing security chaos.  The Centre calls upon the Palestinian National Authority, represented by the Attorney-General, to investigate these crimes, and to bring the perpetrators to justice.