Weapons Cache Found Near Rahat Kindergarten Ahead of School Year

Police forces discovered a cache of weapons and ammunition hidden in bags near a kindergarten in Rahat on January 17, 2026. The discovery was made during a targeted search operation by officers from the SA'AR unit and the National Guard, in collaboration with detectives from the Rahat station. The operation focused on a compound located behind a nursery, close to the kindergarten.

During the search, two bags were found containing a Glock pistol and 5.56mm caliber ammunition. The discovery followed a report of suspicious individuals observed engaging in activity within the compound. Special forces conducted a rapid operational entry into the area to investigate.

Following an investigation, two local residents, aged 38 and 40, were arrested in connection with the weapons. They were taken, along with the seized items, to the Rahat police station for further questioning and processing. The timing of the discovery, just before the start of the school year, highlighted the potential danger posed by illegal weapons in civilian areas.

"The operational activity in the field allows us to quickly reach locations where there is suspicion of illegal weapons possession and to act to thwart the threat," stated Superintendent Moti Tzarfati, an officer in the SA'AR unit. "The seizure of weapons and ammunition near a kindergarten illustrates the risk inherent in illegal weapons possession in civilian spaces. We will continue to act with determination and all available means for the public's safety."