Border Police Commander Indicted for Assault and Sexual Misconduct Against Female Officer

The Police Investigations Department filed charges on Wednesday against Itamar Karko, a Border Police squad commander in the West Bank, accusing him of assault and indecent acts against a female officer serving with him. The indictment, submitted to the Petah Tikva Magistrate's Court, details an incident on February 19, 2025, at the Abu Dis Border Police base.

According to the indictment, what began as a humiliating "initiation ceremony" for the young officer, part of a unit ritual called "Zubor game," escalated into violent and sexual abuse. After their joint shift, Karko allegedly locked the door to the base club and blocked the handle with a broomstick. He then ordered the officer to follow degrading commands, striking her repeatedly with his fists on her ribs and abdomen about 15 times when she answered questions incorrectly.

The abuse intensified as Karko pulled the officer's hair and forced her into a sexual act against her will. He reportedly grabbed her face, sat with legs apart, and pulled her close to his genitals without consent. The officer managed to break free and leave the room. The indictment accuses Karko of unlawful assault and committing an indecent act for sexual gratification or humiliation without consent.

Karko joined the Border Police in November 2023, and the female officer enlisted in August 2024. Both served together at the Abu Dis base. The case highlights serious allegations of abuse of power and sexual misconduct within the Israeli Border Police. The legal process will continue as the court reviews the charges.

Summary: Itamar Karko, a Border Police commander in the West Bank, was indicted for assaulting and sexually abusing a female officer during a humiliating initiation ritual at the Abu Dis base in February 2025. The officer escaped and reported the incident, leading to criminal charges against Karko.