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In a large-scale operation carried out by the Israeli Border Police over the past week, 495 individuals were arrested for attempting to enter the country illegally.
The operation also led to the capture of 44 suspects accused of aiding these illegal entrants, the Israeli Police announced on Sunday, September 29, 2024.
The nationwide crackdown involved various Border Police units and targeted key areas, including Jerusalem, the North and South regions, central Israel, and the border zones near the West Bank.
The operation represents a coordinated effort to combat illegal immigration into the country, which has seen significant numbers of unauthorized entries this year.
Arrests by Region
The Jerusalem area, which has been a major focus for illegal crossings, saw the highest number of arrests. Border Police troops apprehended 350 individuals trying to enter Israel without proper documentation.
In addition, 27 suspects were arrested on charges of facilitating illegal entry by providing housing, transportation, or employment to the individuals.
In other regions of the country, including the North, South, central Israel, and areas near the West Bank, another 145 individuals were detained for entering illegally.
Seventeen people accused of assisting in their illegal movement across borders or aiding their stay in Israel were also arrested in these regions.
Operation’s Objective
Maj.-Gen. Itzhak Brik, Chief Commander of the Israeli Border Police, emphasized the importance of the operation, stating that the security mission is ongoing and vital to protecting the country’s citizens.
“Last year, on the morning of October 7, during the Simchat Torah holiday, our fighters demonstrated immense courage and professionalism in halting a Hamas terrorist attack. This serves as a reminder that we must continue our efforts with the same determination,” Brik noted.
He stressed that the Border Police’s mission to ensure the safety of Israel’s borders and the well-being of its citizens “never ceases,” calling for sustained and intensified actions against illegal immigration and associated security threats.
Broader Impact
Since the start of 2024, Israeli border forces have arrested over 21,000 individuals attempting to cross the country’s borders illegally. In addition, 2,500 individuals accused of aiding these illegal entrants have also been apprehended.
These figures underscore the ongoing challenge Israel faces in controlling illegal immigration, which authorities link not only to economic migration but also to potential security risks.
The latest operation highlights the country’s stringent border policies and the role of the Border Police in enforcing these laws.
The arrests serve as part of a broader strategy aimed at curbing illegal entry and maintaining national security amid concerns about potential threats stemming from unauthorized crossings.
The operation reflects Israel’s commitment to bolstering border security and tackling illegal immigration, an issue that has garnered increased attention in recent years.
As authorities work to manage and regulate the country’s borders, the actions taken this past week signal a continued focus on maintaining order and security throughout Israel.
This extensive operation is expected to lead to further investigations into networks that facilitate illegal immigration and provide support for those entering the country without authorization.