Israeli Soldier Arrested with Personal M16 Rifle After Suspected Shooting Near Kafr Qana

Israeli police in the Northern District arrested a soldier and a 14-year-old minor on suspicion of involvement in a shooting near the industrial area of Kafr Qana. The incident occurred after police received reports of gunfire in an open area adjacent to the industrial zone. Officers quickly deployed around the area and stopped an SUV leaving the scene. The driver was identified as an active-duty IDF soldier on leave, and the vehicle contained his personal M16 rifle. The weapon showed signs of recent use, including a barrel still hot to the touch, indicating it had been fired shortly before the arrest. The soldier and the minor passenger were both detained for questioning. The Military Police Investigations Unit (Maf'at) was called to continue the investigation. Authorities suspect the soldier used his leave to discharge his weapon in the open and are also examining whether he taught the minor to handle or fire the military weapon. The police emphasized their zero-tolerance policy toward unauthorized shootings and urged the IDF to take strict disciplinary action against soldiers who misuse their access to firearms and undermine public safety. The investigation is ongoing.