Three men have been sentenced to death in the UAE for the murder of Moldovan-Israeli citizen and rabbi Zvi Kogan, who was kidnapped and killed in November 2024. A fourth accomplice received a life sentence, according to a Khaleej Times report, citing the Abu Dhabi Federal Court of Appeal’s State Security Division.
The convicted individuals, all Uzbek nationals, were identified as Olimpi Tohirovic, 28, Mahmoud John Abdel Rahim, 28, and Azizbek Kamilovic, 33. They were extradited from Turkey following a covert operation involving Turkish police and intelligence, after fleeing the UAE post-crime. UAE authorities confirmed their arrest days after Kogan’s disappearance was reported by his family.
Prosecutors said the crime was premeditated and motivated by terrorist intent. The court found strong evidence, including confessions, forensic reports, and testimonies. The fourth suspect, who aided the group, will be deported after serving his sentence.
Kogan, 28, a Chabad emissary, had been living in Abu Dhabi with his wife and operated a kosher grocery store. His murder sent shockwaves through the Jewish community, prompting global condemnation. His body was repatriated and buried in Israel.
The UAE government emphasized its commitment to justice and public safety, thanking Turkish authorities for their cooperation. The verdict is subject to review by the Federal Supreme Court.
World leaders and organizations, including Israel, the US, and Chabad, have denounced the killing. Iran, meanwhile, denied speculation about any involvement in the incident.
