Retired Israeli Police Commander Revisits Station He Led 45 Years Ago at Age 88

Eighty-eight-year-old Yehoshua Sinai, a retired police superintendent, recently returned to the Migdal HaEmek police station he commanded 45 years ago. Sinai, who immigrated from Bulgaria to Israel in 1948, began his career working with at-risk youth before joining the police in 1971. He became Israel's first youth officer, creating the role from scratch and serving in the Jezreel Valley region for several years.

Sinai's police career included commanding the Migdal HaEmek station and later the larger Afula station, overseeing more than 80 officers. He recalls notable cases such as the 1985 murder of two teachers in the Gilboa region and his collaboration with local religious leaders to help troubled youths start new lives. After retiring in 1991, Sinai continued working with youth and community organizations before fully retiring.

Living now in an assisted living facility in Kiryat Tivon, Sinai was brought by police to revisit the Migdal HaEmek station, fulfilling a long-held wish. He was warmly received, given a comprehensive tour, and shared his experiences with current officers, some of whom served under him decades ago. Sinai praised the modern improvements and growth in police staffing since his tenure but criticized the police for not effectively communicating their work to the public.

Sinai expressed deep respect for the police force and lamented misconceptions about their role, emphasizing the importance of public awareness of their efforts to maintain order and safety. He concluded by saying that if he could, he would return to active duty, highlighting his enduring passion for policing and community service.