Israeli Border Police Arrest Suspect Digging Tunnel Near Separation Barrier in Qalandiya

During an operational activity near the separation barrier in Qalandiya, Israeli Border Police observation units identified several suspects digging a shaft close to the barrier. Upon the arrival of the forces, the suspects fled, but after a foot pursuit involving warning shots, a 36-year-old resident of the Qalandiya refugee camp was arrested. The suspect was found to be in Israel without legal authorization. During initial interrogation, he claimed that the group intended to dig a tunnel for infiltration into Israeli territory. The arrested individual led the police to the excavation site, where digging tools and numerous buckets were discovered, believed to have been used for the tunnel construction. The suspect and the seized items were transferred to the Border Police's investigation and intelligence unit in the Jerusalem area for further inquiry. Police stated that the investigation is ongoing and additional arrests are expected.