Israeli Police Seize Over 1kg of Cocaine Hidden in Skoda on Highway 6 Near Zichron Yaakov

Israeli police officers from the Romach unit, specializing in combating drug and weapon smuggling, executed a dramatic operation on Highway 6 after receiving precise intelligence about a private Skoda vehicle carrying a large illegal shipment. The operation took place near Zichron Yaakov, at the exit of a tunnel on the northbound route. Officers strategically blocked the vehicle to prevent escape and ensured the safety of other road users. The driver, a man in his 40s from the Israeli Arab community, was arrested without resistance.

During a thorough search, police discovered a hidden compartment behind the car's multimedia system. Removing the panel revealed a deep cavity containing a large, heavily wrapped rectangular package. The package was sent to the police laboratory, where it was confirmed to contain 1,075 grams of high-quality cocaine, valued at hundreds of thousands of shekels on the street after dilution and distribution.

The suspect was taken for intensive interrogation at the Jeser al-Zarqa police station, where investigators are working to uncover the supply chain and intended destination of the shipment. The police requested and received an extension of the suspect's detention until July 20, 2026, to continue their investigation. Authorities emphasized this seizure as part of ongoing efforts to disrupt criminal networks and prevent dangerous drugs from reaching urban centers.