Massive Arms and Drug Cache Linked to Abu Latif Crime Family Seized in Northern Israel

Police in Israel's Northern District, in a sophisticated and extensive operation involving Border Police and National Guard forces, have uncovered and seized an unusually large cache of weapons and drugs. The stash, valued at millions of shekels on the black market, is suspected of belonging to the Abu Latif crime organization. The raid was executed in an open, mountainous area near the village of Rama, following precise intelligence information that led dozens of officers and soldiers to the location. This site was reportedly used as a central and strategic hiding place for firearms, explosives, and operational equipment utilized by the organization's criminals. After extensive searches, forces discovered 12 firearms, including four handguns and eight rifles (M-16s, Kalashnikovs, and shotguns). Also found were explosive materials and charges, including a standard IDF explosive device and dozens of advanced detonation systems. Hundreds of bullets, dozens of magazines, weapon spare parts, and standard ceramic vests were also confiscated, along with an operational vehicle bearing forged license plates. Over three kilograms of a substance believed to be cocaine, with an estimated street value of millions of shekels, were seized. All items were confiscated by detectives and transferred to forensic labs for further analysis to identify and prosecute those involved in hiding the cache. Police stated this operation is part of ongoing efforts led by Northern District Commander Superintendent Meir Eliyahu, in line with the policy set by Inspector General of Police, Lieutenant General Dany Levy, to dismantle crime organizations and their weapons infrastructure.