A known scammer nicknamed “Amnon” has returned to northern Jerusalem, tricking yeshiva students with staged emergencies, fake documents, and threats of violence.
Residents of Neve Yaakov in northern Jerusalem are once again on alert after a familiar conman reappeared in the neighborhood, preying on unsuspecting yeshiva students late at night.
The swindler, who identifies himself as “Amnon,” is notorious for elaborate scams and has previously served prison time for fraud and violent offenses. After a period of absence—likely due to incarceration—he has resumed his schemes in the same community.
His method is disturbingly calculated:
- He fabricates urgent emergencies, pleading for quick financial help.
- To appear credible, he leaves his mobile phone as “collateral” and holds staged speakerphone conversations with supposed family members.
- In some cases, he presents forged bank transfer slips to assure victims of repayment.
Once money is handed over, “Amnon” vanishes. When challenged, he reportedly escalates to verbal abuse and even physical threats.
“He knows the neighborhood and exactly how to approach our community,” one longtime resident warned. “The problem is that he’s not only a swindler—he’s dangerous and unafraid to threaten people when exposed.”
Community leaders are urging vigilance and encouraging victims to file official complaints with police to prevent further exploitation.
