An Israel Prison Service officer was detained on Tuesday over suspected interference in the inquiry into the killing of 19-year-old Benayahu Razi in Jerusalem earlier this month, police and the IPS stated.

The 34-year-old officer from Hod Hasharon is believed to have formed a personal relationship with an inmate at the central Israel prison where she is employed.

The inmate is a relative of 17-year-old Avior Sasson, the main suspect in the murder case, who remains free more than two weeks after Razi was slain.

Police believe the pair collaborated to hinder the probe and support Sasson amid the search. Reports named the inmate as Sasson's brother.

Investigators suspect the inmate used the officer's cellphone to help Sasson hide and avoid capture. The full scope of the alleged aid, including whether the phone carried instructions or details to Sasson, is still under review.

The covert probe started after IPS intelligence staff received tips about the officer's conduct and shared them with police, according to the joint announcement.

The officer was arrested on suspicion of obstruction of justice and breach of trust. She was questioned, after which officials will decide if she should appear in court for extended detention.

"The search for the murder suspect continues without pause, and investigators are working around the clock to gather every piece of information that could reveal his location and lead to his arrest," said Supt. Rotem Hila Zaken.

Several Suspects Held Over Roles in Razi Killing

Razi was stabbed to death on July 11 in a short-term rental apartment in Jerusalem's Nachlaot neighborhood. A friend with him suffered light wounds and escaped the apartment. Several suspects have been detained since for alleged parts in arranging the meeting, carrying out the attack and helping those involved flee.

Police took the unusual step last week of publicly releasing Sasson's name and photograph despite his being a minor, seeking public help to locate him.

Sasson, a Jerusalem resident, was reportedly seen fleeing the murder scene wearing a white shirt and black trousers. Police warned that anyone assisting him could be investigated for aiding an offender after the fact, an offense carrying a potential prison sentence of up to three years.