The perpetrators of the murder of rabbi Zvi Kogan. ARCHIVE

A UAE court has handed down death sentences to three individuals involved in the kidnapping and murder of Moldovan-Israeli rabbi Zvi Kogan, who was based in Dubai. A fourth accomplice received a life sentence, the State Security Division of the Abu Dhabi Federal Court of Appeal announced on Monday (March 31). The court found Uzbek nationals Olimpi Tohirovic, Mahmoud John Abdel Rahim, both 28, and Azizbek Kamilovic, 33, guilty of premeditated murder with terrorist intent. The fourth defendant, whose role was aiding in the crime, was sentenced to life imprisonment and will be deported upon serving his term. Kogan was reported missing by his family on November 21, 2024, prompting UAE authorities to launch an extensive search. Three days later, officials confirmed his murder and the arrest of three suspects. According to authorities, the suspects fled to Turkey, where they were captured in a covert operation involving Turkish intelligence and police. They were later extradited to the UAE upon the government's request. Attorney General Dr. Hamad Saif Al Shamsi ordered an urgent trial in January 2025, after investigations revealed that the suspects had stalked and killed Kogan. The prosecution presented strong evidence, including detailed confessions, forensic reports, and witness testimonies. In a unanimous ruling, the court sentenced the three main perpetrators to death, while the fourth defendant was sentenced to life in prison and deportation. The Attorney General reaffirmed that the ruling reflects the UAE’s firm commitment to combating terrorism and upholding justice. Under UAE law, death penalty cases are automatically reviewed by the Federal Supreme Court’s Criminal Cassation Chamber.

Who was Rabbi Zvi Kogan?

Kogan, 28, was an emissary of the Chabad Hasidic movement and had been residing in Abu Dhabi with his wife, Rivky. He was actively involved in Jewish outreach and operated a kosher grocery store in Dubai. Kogan was buried in Israel. His murder sent shockwaves through the global Jewish community. Chabad leaders described his death as a “sheer act of evil,” urging world leaders to take action. Following the incident, the UAE government reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safety for residents and visitors. Dr. Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the UAE President, stated on X: "The UAE remains a land of safety, a haven of stability, and a society of tolerance and coexistence." The UAE also extended condolences to Kogan’s family, thanking Turkish authorities for their assistance in apprehending the suspects. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denounced the killing as a "heinous act," stating: "I greatly appreciate the UAE’s cooperation in the investigation. We will strengthen our ties in the face of threats to peace." Meanwhile, the US National Security Council called Kogan’s murder “a crime against all those who stand for peace, tolerance, and coexistence.” Iran denied involvement in the murder, dismissing speculation as "baseless," according to a statement issued by its embassy in Abu Dhabi. ICA/Expat Media
For all the latest news from the UAE and the world, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube page