“Malaysian Authorities Investigate Israeli National Amid Speculations of Criminal Connections and Espionage”

In a Kuala Lumpur courtroom on Friday, an Israeli man, who was apprehended in Malaysia last month carrying six firearms and numerous rounds of ammunition, entered a plea of not guilty to charges of unauthorized trafficking and possession of firearms, according to his lawyer.

Shalom Avitan, aged 38, is facing allegations of illegally trafficking six firearms and possessing 158 bullets without authorization, as stated by his lawyer, Jeffrey Ooi, in remarks to Reuters.

Avitan’s journey to Malaysia commenced on March 12 from the United Arab Emirates, traveling on a French passport, as reported by the police. He was detained at a Kuala Lumpur hotel on March 27 with a bag containing the aforementioned firearms and later presented an Israeli passport during police interrogation.

Security measures were stringent at the Kuala Lumpur Court Complex on Friday, with Avitan escorted into the courtroom by more than a dozen police officers.

Malaysia’s harsh penalties

Malaysia enforces strict penalties for firearm-related offenses. In the event of a conviction, Avitan could face up to 40 years of imprisonment and a mandatory minimum of six strokes of the cane.

Authorities are currently probing Avitan’s intentions and have not dismissed the possibility that he may be associated with an Israeli criminal syndicate or espionage activities. According to officials, Avitan asserted that he had come to Malaysia to locate another Israeli national regarding a family disagreement.

Earlier this week, a Malaysian married couple faced charges for allegedly supplying firearms to Avitan. Additionally, law enforcement has apprehended eight other individuals, including two Turkish citizens and a Georgian man, in connection with the case, as reported by state media.

In response to Avitan’s arrest, border security measures have been reinforced, particularly due to Malaysia’s criticism of Israel’s actions during the Gaza conflict. It’s worth noting that Malaysia and Israel lack diplomatic relations.