Israeli Police Discover 25-Meter Tunnel and Weapons Cache in Qalqilya

Israeli police forces have uncovered a sophisticated tunnel, approximately 25 meters deep, in the Palestinian city of Qalqilya. The discovery was made during a targeted intelligence operation that led officers from the Samaria Crime Fighting Unit and the West Bank Border Police to a site where excavation was in advanced stages. Four suspects were apprehended at the scene and are currently undergoing police investigation.

During the search of the tunnel, which had not yet been completed, a significant cache of weapons was found and seized. These included an M16 rifle, a sniper rifle, ammunition, magazines, mobile phones, fertilizer used for making explosives, and a DVR device. Authorities indicated that the findings suggest a well-developed terror infrastructure was in the process of being prepared.

This incident follows a series of similar discoveries in the Samaria region in recent months. Two weeks prior, another tunnel was found near the separation barrier close to the settlements of Giva'on and Giv'at Ze'ev, with its entrance concealed in an ancient water cistern.

Qalqilya, designated as Area A under Palestinian control, has been the focus of security operations in the past. In July, ten Israeli civilians were rescued from the city after entering illegally in search of a stolen motorcycle, finding themselves surrounded by a hostile crowd.

Israel Police stated they will continue proactive operations to expose excavation infrastructure and weapons in the Samaria region, apprehend those involved, and bring them to justice. These efforts are part of broader initiatives to enhance security along the separation barrier and prevent infiltrations. The investigation into the four arrested suspects aims to determine the tunnel's purpose, its organizers, and the organizational structure behind its construction, as well as any potential links between the seized items.