Israel investigates security scare at Sarkozy departure

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2008

JERUSALEM (AFP) — Israeli authorities on Wednesday were investigating the apparent suicide death of a policeman which stirred a security scare during French President Nicolas Sarkozy's departure ceremony.

A police spokesman confirmed an investigation had been launched into the death of Raed Ranen, 32, who seemingly shot himself while standing guard during the ceremony at Ben Gurion airport near Tel Aviv on Tuesday.

Authorities believe Ranen committed suicide, a version rejected by the man's family.

After the shot that killed Ranen rang out, bodyguards rushed Sarkozy and first lady Carla Bruni-Sarkozy to their plane, while security officials whisked Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and President Shimon Peres into their armoured cars.

Once it became...