Two Israelis Arrested in Dominican Republic for Drug Smuggling Attempt

Two Israeli citizens were arrested in the Dominican Republic on suspicion of attempting to smuggle drugs to Europe. The arrests occurred at the international airport in Punta Cana shortly before the individuals were scheduled to board a flight to Frankfurt, Germany. During baggage inspection, an X-ray machine detected suspicious findings in two suitcases, prompting security personnel to open them for further examination. A search revealed 16 packages of a substance believed to be cocaine, concealed within specially constructed double-walled compartments. One suitcase contained seven packages, and the other held nine. The packages were wrapped in plastic bags and tape to obscure their contents. According to reports, the arrested individuals are both 38 years old. During the search, mobile phones, electronic equipment, foreign currency, passports, and personal documents were also confiscated. The suspects have been handed over to the prosecution in the La Altagracia province for further legal proceedings. Dominican authorities are expanding their investigation to explore the possibility of an international crime network recruiting Israelis as drug mules for transport to Europe. This suspicion is also being examined in light of a recent incident at the same airport where a 40-year-old Israeli citizen was arrested after seven packages of suspected cocaine, also hidden in a double wall, were found in his suitcase.