Israeli police deny branding Star of David on Palestinian man’s face

JERUSALEM (AA) – While the Israeli police have denied branding a Palestinian man’s cheek with the Jewish Star of David, forensics experts have said it was done using a metal tool.

The trial of Arva Sheikh Aliwe was held at the West Jerusalem District Court. The 22-year-old Palestinian had been detained last week by Israeli police at the Shuafat Refugee Camp in East Jerusalem on drug trafficking charges.

Ali said the Star of David was carved into his face during his detention by Israeli police officers.

In photos spread on social media, traces of the six-pointed star, known as a symbol of Judaism and the state of Israel, are clearly visible on his face.

Before the hearing, Ali’s lawyer, Ekrem Abu-Libde, said police kept him in a detention center without performing a health check, although it was legally mandatory.

The court has asked the Justice Ministry to investigate the police for misconduct after Ali was reportedly violently beaten by officers while in custody.

It decided to place Ali under house arrest, pointing to the conditions under which he was detained for four days and the police misconduct as justification for its decision.

”It is clear that serious violence was committed against the suspect in custody,” it said, confirming that he had also not undergone a medical check-up.

Forensic experts deny police claims

Responding to Ali’s claims, Israeli police said he resisted arrest and that a “bruise” on his cheek similar to a triangle was most likely caused by a boot pressed against his face.

However, the Forensic Medicine Agency reported that no match was found between a boot and the facial mark.