Israeli Border Police Officers Indicted for Allowing Unauthorized Crossings at Al-Jib Checkpoint for Bribes

The Israeli Police Investigations Department (Mahash) has filed charges against two Border Police officers and an Arab civilian for facilitating unauthorized crossings at the Al-Jib checkpoint near Givat Ze'ev. According to the indictment, the officers repeatedly allowed unauthorized individuals and vehicles to pass through the checkpoint without security checks, sometimes in exchange for money, food, and drinks. The officers served in the Border Police and commanded the civilian crossing at Al-Jib during the first half of 2024. This crossing permits local Palestinian residents to move from Area C to Israeli sovereign territory, with vehicle passage restricted to approved individuals and vehicles authorized by the Coordination and Liaison Administration.

The indictment details that the officers violated regulations by establishing personal relationships with local Palestinians, including frequent phone calls, sharing information about checkpoint operations, and providing favors. One officer allegedly coordinated multiple unauthorized crossings from March to June 2024, sometimes allowing hidden passengers in vehicles to pass without inspection. Initially refusing bribes, he later accepted sums ranging from 1,000 to 1,600 shekels on several occasions. He also attempted to obstruct the investigation by deleting incriminating communications.

The second officer is accused of regularly sharing checkpoint information with locals, facilitating unauthorized crossings, and receiving benefits such as free meals. He reportedly instructed fellow officers to allow unauthorized individuals to pass even when he was absent. The civilian is charged with multiple counts of bribery, illegal transportation, and driving without valid licenses.

The investigation was conducted by the Exposure Team of the Police Investigations Department and the indictment was submitted to the Jerusalem District Court. The charges against the first officer include bribery, fraud, breach of trust, obstruction of justice, and dereliction of duty. The second officer faces charges of fraud, breach of trust, and dereliction of duty, while the civilian faces bribery and traffic violations.