Israeli Police Chief Denies Allegations of Downplaying Crime in Arab Communities

Last week, the Israeli news site ynet reported that Police Commissioner Major General Danni Levi made controversial remarks during an emergency meeting with district commanders about the fight against crime. According to ynet, Levi allegedly said, "Murders are not everything," and claimed that police results in combating crime over the past five years were the best ever.

In response, the police issued a strong denial on Sunday morning, calling the report a "complete distortion" of Levi's words. The statement emphasized that Levi considers the fight against crime and violence in Arab society a "top national priority" and places it at the forefront of police efforts. It noted that Levi frequently raises the issue in discussions, closely monitors police actions, and works to utilize all available tools to combat organized crime.

The police also highlighted Levi's ongoing calls for restoring powers and resources previously taken from the police to strengthen their ability to fight crime organizations and enhance public safety. Additionally, the police criticized journalist Hassan Alaan, stating he was invited multiple times to join police activities to witness their work firsthand but chose to continue publishing biased reports that do not contribute to the fight against crime or benefit Arab society.