Israel intercepts weapons smuggling plot along eastern border PHOTO

Israeli security forces say they have foiled an attempt to smuggle weapons across the country’s eastern border following a joint operation involving the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Israel Police.

According to a statement, surveillance units identified suspected smuggling activity on April 23. 

IDF troops and police units were subsequently deployed and pursued those involved.

One suspect was detained during the operation. Authorities also seized off-road vehicles and drone equipment allegedly used in the smuggling attempt. A search of the vehicles led to the discovery of 12 handguns.

The detained individual and the confiscated weapons were handed over to a relevant Israel Police unit for further investigation.

As part of broader efforts to strengthen security along the eastern border, the IDF said a new command centre has recently been established in the Dead Sea sector under the 96th Division. Police forces are also deployed in the area.

The IDF and Israel Police said they treat any involvement of civilians in weapons smuggling “with severity,” adding that such activity poses a risk to national security. They said operations to prevent cross-border smuggling would continue.

Authorities have not released further details about the identity of the suspect or the intended destination of the weapons. Investigations are ongoing.

By Aghakazim Guliyev