Israeli 'Bermuda Triangle' in Galilee Raises Concerns Over Missing Persons Cases

The recent discovery of the body of Keteriel Nachman Keinan near Tiberias has renewed attention on the high number of disappearances in northern Israel, particularly around Safed and its surrounding forests, extending to Tiberias and the Galilee region. Yekutiel Mike Ben Yaakov, commander and founder of the Israel Search Dog Unit, discussed the challenges of locating missing persons in this area, which the media has dubbed the "Israeli Bermuda Triangle," spanning from Hatzor HaGlilit, Safed, Meron, to Tiberias.

Ben Yaakov clarified that while there are more disappearances reported in this northern region, it does not constitute the majority of missing persons cases in Israel. Annually, about 4,000 people go missing nationwide, with around 200 considered high-risk cases lasting more than a day, and only 10 to 20 remain unresolved. He noted that media attention often focuses on northern cases, such as those of Haimenot Kasao and Moishy Kleinerman, especially when children are involved.

The higher incidence of disappearances in the Galilee is attributed to the area's dense forests, difficult terrain, and thick vegetation, which can easily disorient individuals who stray even slightly from marked paths. Ben Yaakov emphasized the need for caution but discouraged public fear of visiting these areas.

Efforts to address the issue include significant improvements in Safed, where the mayor has installed numerous surveillance cameras in cooperation with other agencies and parliamentary committees, aiding in case resolutions. While Meron also has many cameras, Ben Yaakov suggested expanding coverage at forest entrances and key locations like Nahal Amud. Wireless cameras are necessary for these remote areas, though budget constraints pose challenges.

Ben Yaakov also urged educational institutions to incorporate safety training for outdoor activities into their curricula, especially before vacation periods. He highlighted that most missing persons cases involve vulnerable groups such as Alzheimer’s patients, autistic children, and individuals fleeing due to depression, rather than typical hikers losing their way. Prompt detection through surveillance could significantly improve search and rescue outcomes.