A joint operation by police and the Israel Prison Service uncovered a suspicious drone hidden in open ground in Segev Shalom, with a block of explosives, a mobile phone and ammunition concealed on it. The discovery came during a targeted search by officers from the Segev Shalom station, investigators from the Prison Service’s intelligence unit, National Guard fighters and the Southern Border Unit.
According to police, the drone had been concealed in a vehicle and a deeper inspection revealed the items hidden in the rear section of the flying device. The scene was immediately sealed off, and a police bomb disposal expert was called in to neutralize the explosives and ammunition. The materials were then taken for further investigation at the Segev Shalom station, which has opened a broad probe to identify those behind the smuggling attempt.
Segev Shalom station commander, Chief Supt. Eli Cohen, said the finding showed the danger to the public and the importance of coordinated operational work. “We will continue to act decisively, together with all units and relevant bodies, to locate and thwart weapons and to bring those involved to justice, for the safety of residents and the preservation of public order,” he said.
Prisons Service Southern intelligence unit commander Brig. Gen. Yossi Doron said the joint action had again foiled “criminal terror.” He added that the Prison Service, in line with the commissioner’s policy, would keep operating inside and outside prison walls as needed to protect public safety. Police said the case fits a wider pattern of drones being used to smuggle weapons and drugs into prisons and other areas, and noted that the southern district and the Prison Service will continue working against the possession, concealment and distribution of such items.
