Police Find Drugs, Grenade in Nazareth Rental Unit During Crime Sweep

During a raid on a rental unit in Nazareth, police officers and Border Police forces discovered a significant quantity of drugs, including cocaine and hashish, along with ammunition. The operation, part of an ongoing effort against crime organizations in the city, was prompted by intelligence regarding illegal weapons. Two suspects, residents of Nazareth aged 23 and 28, were detained at the scene.

Further searches led to the discovery of a fragmentation grenade and dozens of bullets hidden inside a bag beneath a baby stroller in a vehicle belonging to one of the suspects. Both individuals were arrested, and authorities are expected to seek an extension of their detention. The investigation into the incident and its circumstances is ongoing.

This seizure comes amidst a broader surge in crime and weapons found in Nazareth and the surrounding northern region. In July alone, police reported a substantial increase in the interception and seizure of illegal arms. Recent finds in the Nazareth area include 12 handguns, three "Carlo" submachine guns, five hand grenades, and large quantities of ammunition.

The increased seizures are linked to shifts in the local crime landscape, particularly the impact on the powerful and violent Bakri organization. Following the arrests of its leader, Samir Bakri, and other members, the organization, which was involved in extortion, protection rackets, arms and drug trafficking, and allegedly controlled Nazareth municipal tenders worth hundreds of millions of shekels, has been significantly weakened.