Ketziot Prison investigation reveals guard misconduct in Palestinian prisoner death

An investigation into the death of Palestinian prisoner Sair Semih Abu Asab at Ketziot Prison has revealed disturbing communications among prison guards. According to reports based on investigation files, phone messages show guards discussing the severe physical abuse of inmates and expressing satisfaction regarding Abu Asab’s death.

Abu Asab, who had been imprisoned since 2005, died after sustaining heart damage caused by heavy physical assault. Witnesses reported that during a cell count, approximately 15 guards and 15 security officers entered the unit, using batons and releasing dogs on prisoners. One witness stated that Abu Asab suffered the most severe beating, leaving him with a bruised face and bleeding limbs.

Internal messages include descriptions of blood flowing in the cells and guards celebrating the incident. One guard reportedly messaged a partner stating, ‘My love, he just died,’ while another noted, ‘We beat them badly.’ A female guard, Oshrit Eliga, also reportedly sent messages expressing satisfaction with the events following the death.