Gang Arrested for Violent Robberies Targeting Delivery Drivers

Police in Lod have arrested three individuals suspected of a string of violent robberies targeting delivery drivers in Lod and Ramla over the past two months. The arrests followed an investigation into a violent incident on July 23, where masked assailants allegedly attacked a delivery driver, smashed his car window, and stole cash and property.

Investigators identified a pattern of similar robberies and tracked down the suspects. In a covert operation, Lod station detectives, along with Shapla region undercover officers, apprehended the three suspects red-handed shortly after they allegedly committed another robbery. The arrested individuals include two cousins in their 20s from Ramla and Lod, and a resident of Jaffa.

During their interrogation, investigators built a case against the trio for four separate robbery incidents. The indictment, filed by the Central District Prosecutor's Office with the Lod District Court, alleges the defendants conspired to rob delivery drivers and divide the spoils. The female defendant allegedly used fake names and addresses to order deliveries, informing her two male accomplices of the drivers' arrival times and locations.

According to the indictment, the two men, disguised and armed with items like pepper spray, would ambush the drivers, assault them, and steal their deliveries, cash, and belongings. The charges include armed robbery in a group, aggravated assault, and vehicle break-ins. The stolen goods and cash are valued at tens of thousands of shekels, and the victims sustained injuries and vehicle damage.

"The Israel Police will continue to act with determination and all available means against criminal gangs committing acts of robbery and violence, in order to bring them to justice and ensure public safety and security," a police statement read.