Police Disrupt Illegal Camel Race in Negev Desert

Israeli police forces from the Southern District raided a compound in a live-fire zone in the Negev desert on Friday morning, thwarting an illegal camel race before it could begin. The operation was based on precise intelligence regarding preparations for the event, which was scheduled to take place near Route 222 and the Bir Hadaj area.

Upon arrival at the scene, officers observed vehicles, carts, and participants gathering. Police officers from the Shagav Shalom station, along with units from Yoav, Border Police, and the National Guard, conducted the raid with aerial support. The swift action caused many vehicles to disperse as the forces entered the compound.

Guided by the aerial unit, police located two minors attempting to flee and hide in nearby bushes. The two were detained for questioning at the Shagav Shalom station, and a camel involved in the event was seized. The police stated that this operation is part of a broader enforcement effort by the Southern District to detect and prevent illegal camel races, which are considered dangerous to the public and often occur in open and live-fire areas of the Negev.

The police are continuing vigorous efforts to locate and thwart such events, which are associated with bullying and life-threatening offenses.