Israeli Police Uncover Large Arms and Drug Trafficking Network Involving IDF Soldiers

Israeli police, in cooperation with the Military Police Investigations Unit (Matzach), arrested several suspects in recent weeks linked to the theft of an M16 rifle from an IDF base in northern Israel. On June 20, a report was received about the stolen weapon from a northern base, leading to the arrest of a 30-year-old reservist from Tiberias suspected of stealing the rifle from a soldier in his unit. Further investigation revealed that the rifle was transferred to criminal elements, prompting a joint probe by the Israel Police and Matzach.

As the investigation progressed, authorities uncovered a comprehensive drug trafficking network distributing cocaine and other hard drugs, primarily to soldiers at northern bases. A 30-year-old resident of Kiryat Tivon was arrested on suspicion of receiving the stolen rifle on the night of the theft. Additionally, the brother of the soldier accused of the theft, a captain (rank of Rasan) serving at a northern military camp, was questioned for obstruction of justice and conspiracy. He is suspected of supplying medical cannabis, which he legally possessed, to the suspects on multiple occasions.

The Northern District Prosecutor's Office is set to file charges against the Kiryat Tivon resident for arms trafficking. Concurrently, the military prosecution will charge the reservist involved in the theft and arms trade. The Israel Police's Kiryat Shmona branch will also prosecute the 34-year-old Tiberias resident for drug trafficking. Charges against the officer are expected to be filed later. This case exposes a significant criminal network involving stolen military weapons and drug distribution among IDF soldiers in northern Israel.