Police Disrupt Illegal Camel Race in Negev Before It Begins

Israeli police forces from the Southern District raided a compound in a firing zone in the Negev desert on Friday morning, thwarting an illegal camel race that was about to take place. The operation, based on precise intelligence, targeted the site during the preparation phase.

According to a police statement, the operation commenced early Friday after intelligence indicated preparations for a camel race near Route 222 and the Bir Hadaj area. Southern District forces arrived at the location and observed vehicles, trailers, and participants gathering. Officers from the Shagav Shalom station, along with units from Yoav, Border Police, and the National Guard, executed the raid with aerial support.

The swift intervention prevented the race from starting. As police entered the compound, many vehicles dispersed. Guided by the aerial unit, two minors attempting to flee and hide in nearby bushes were apprehended near a camel. The minors were detained for questioning, and the camel was seized.

This operation is part of a broader enforcement effort by the Southern District to identify and prevent illegal camel races, which are considered dangerous to the public and often occur in open areas and firing zones in the Negev. Police stated they are actively working to counter such activities, which involve dangerous behavior and endanger human lives, by integrating intelligence capabilities, ground forces, and aerial support.