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Jerusalem, May 15, 2025 — Israeli police forces raided a wedding celebration in east Jerusalem on Wednesday night, seizing multiple firearms including an M16 assault rifle, two handguns, ammunition, and spent shell casings. The dramatic intervention followed reports of gunfire coming from the venue, according to a police spokesperson.
The incident unfolded when officers stationed in the vicinity of the event heard several gunshots being fired during the party. Acting swiftly, the police mobilized units to the location and entered the premises to investigate the source of the gunfire.
Upon entry, one of the suspects attempted to flee the scene, discarding a pistol in the process. A foot chase ensued, and police were able to apprehend the suspect shortly after, a police statement said. A second individual, also trying to escape, was caught soon after. A search of his vehicle led to the discovery of an M16 rifle and additional ammunition.
Further sweeps of the area led officers to uncover a third firearm — another pistol — along with a bullet magazine. Forensic teams conducting scans of the party venue also recovered cartridge casings, believed to have been fired earlier during the celebration.
The two arrested suspects, both men in their twenties and residents of east Jerusalem, are being held on charges of illegal possession and use of firearms. Authorities noted that the suspects will be brought before a court on Thursday, where police are expected to request an extension of their detention to continue the investigation.
“This event could have ended in tragedy,” a police spokesperson said in a statement. “The reckless use of firearms in civilian gatherings endangers lives and will not be tolerated.”
The presence of firearms at weddings and celebratory gunfire, though condemned by law enforcement and safety experts, remains a recurring issue in some parts of the country. Authorities have stepped up crackdowns in recent years in an effort to curb illegal weapons possession and reduce gun violence.
Police have not disclosed whether the weapons found were previously registered or if they were obtained through illegal channels. The investigation is ongoing, and further arrests have not been ruled out.
No injuries were reported during the raid, though the presence of multiple weapons and discharged rounds at a large gathering has raised serious concerns among community leaders and law enforcement officials.
The police emphasized that Wednesday night’s raid is part of a broader campaign to combat illegal weapons in Jerusalem and surrounding areas, particularly in neighborhoods where such activities have been historically underreported.
“This kind of behavior — firing weapons in public spaces, especially at weddings or other celebrations — poses a grave danger to attendees and bystanders,” said the spokesperson. “We are committed to ensuring that all residents can celebrate safely and lawfully.”
Authorities have encouraged members of the public to report suspicious activity and continue to cooperate with law enforcement efforts to reduce the threat of illegal arms in civilian settings.