Three Suspected Smugglers Detained Near Egypt Border After Chase

Israeli soldiers apprehended three individuals near the border with Egypt, north of the resort city of Eilat, following a pursuit. The suspects were traveling in two off-road vehicles in an area known for recent smuggling attempts. A military patrol spotted the vehicles, and when soldiers attempted to approach, the drivers sped away. After a chase, both vehicles were stopped, and the three men inside were detained. The military found a drone, binoculars, and a radio in the vehicles. The incident occurred on Highway 10, a road accessible only by military authorization and located within a closed military zone, according to the "Maariv" newspaper. At a hearing in the Eilat Magistrate's Court, the defense attorneys argued that their clients were not involved in smuggling. They claimed the men were tourists who took a wrong turn and accidentally ended up on Highway 10.