Suspect in Ma'ale Adumim Car Thefts, Released in Gilad Shalit Deal, Arrested

Police have arrested a resident of Bethlehem in his 30s, who was released as part of the Gilad Shalit prisoner exchange deal, on suspicion of central involvement in multiple car thefts in Ma'ale Adumim. During a search of his vehicle, officers discovered tens of thousands of shekels in cash, believed to be proceeds from the sale of two stolen vehicles, concealed in the front of the car. A court extended his detention until September 14.

The arrest is part of an investigation by the Ma'ale Adumim police station following a series of car thefts in the city during August. Police suspect the individual played a significant role in several of these incidents. His vehicle was also seized, and the hidden cash was found during the search.

On the previous day, two additional suspects, residents of Bethlehem and Beit Jala in their 30s, were arrested in connection with the same investigation, suspected of involvement in car thefts in Ma'ale Adumim. They were interrogated and subsequently detained.

Separately, Ariel police opened an investigation into a reported car theft from a shopping center in the city. Following intelligence gathering and investigative actions, a Palestinian resident of Qibya in his 30s was arrested on suspicion of involvement in multiple car thefts in the area. He has also been detained as the investigation continues.

These incidents are part of a broader crackdown on car thefts in the Judea and Samaria region. Over the past week, police have arrested more than 20 suspects in connection with car thefts and prevented the theft of six vehicles.