Three Arrested for Possessing Stolen IDF Anti-Tank Missile

Three individuals, including an undocumented resident from Judea and Samaria and two residents of Shfaram, have been indicted for possessing a stolen IDF "Matador" anti-tank missile and documenting themselves with it. The arrests followed an operation by special patrol units from the Galilee and the Northern District's intelligence and investigation unit. On September 5, security forces located the weapon near Shfaram in the Galilee region during a targeted intelligence operation. The Matador missile, a sophisticated weapon manufactured by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, is known for its precision and is used by IDF soldiers in combat. Investigators discovered that a third suspect had also been involved in holding the missile and had filmed himself with it, leading to his arrest. These self-made videos served as key evidence in the investigation. The Haifa District Prosecutor's Office filed the indictments at the Haifa District Court, also requesting the detention of the three suspects until the legal proceedings conclude. The police stated this action is part of their ongoing efforts to combat the illegal possession of weapons by criminal elements. Since the beginning of the year, over 700 lethal weapons have been seized in the Northern District, with numerous arrests of armed individuals. The police emphasized their continued commitment to public safety through the seizure of illegal weapons and the prosecution of offenders, noting this arrest is part of broader enforcement actions against illegal residents and those possessing stolen military hardware.