Pregnant Gazelle Found in Cage During West Bank Raid

Border Police and the Israel Nature and Parks Authority discovered a pregnant adult gazelle held illegally in a cage during a raid on a suspect's home in the village of Idna, near Hebron, overnight. The operation, based on intelligence from the Border Police's Southern District special investigations unit, involved officers from the West Bank division and nature reserve inspectors from the Civil Administration. Upon locating the gazelle, officers realized it was heavily pregnant. Nature Authority inspectors took custody of the animal and transported it to the Wildlife Hospital at the Ramat Gan Safari for veterinary care. Initial examinations by Dr. Ruti Shabiro indicated the gazelle was in fair physical condition, though showing clear signs of captivity. The pregnancy appeared viable and healthy. The suspect was arrested and is being questioned by the Nature and Parks Authority on suspicion of illegal hunting, possession, harming, and trafficking of protected wildlife.

Border Police and the Nature and Parks Authority stated they will continue their joint efforts to combat illegal hunting, possession, and trade of protected wild animals.