Daijiworld Media Network – Jerusalem

Jerusalem, Jul 4: An active Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reservist has been arrested on suspicion of illegally possessing and trafficking weapons after security personnel recovered firearms and ammunition from his residence in southern Israel.

The arrest followed a joint operation by the Israel Police and the Military Police after intelligence inputs suggested that the reservist was involved in illegal arms trafficking.

During a search of the suspect's home, investigators seized a Kalashnikov assault rifle, a sniper rifle and a large quantity of ammunition.

The reservist was taken into custody for questioning by the Military Police. During initial interrogation, he admitted to possessing the weapons, claiming they had been collected from combat zones near the Gaza border following the October 7 attacks.

However, investigators rejected the explanation, saying there was substantial evidence to suspect that the weapons were being stored for sale and distribution to criminal elements.

Police said the seizure had prevented the weapons from reaching criminal networks and highlighted the importance of coordination between law enforcement and military authorities in tackling illegal arms trafficking.

The arrest forms part of an ongoing crackdown launched by Israel Police Commissioner Daniel Levy to curb violence and seize illegal weapons, particularly those intended for use by criminal organisations.

As part of the campaign, Southern District Police Commander Haim Bublil has directed officers to intensify action against illegal possession and trafficking of firearms. Authorities said the operation has already led to the seizure of dozens of rifles and handguns across the region.