Massive raid: dozens arrested on suspicion of protection racketeering in the south

Early this morning (Tuesday), police arrested dozens of suspects in Ashdod, Kiryat Gat, and other localities in the south on suspicion of involvement in protection racketeering, extortion, and other offenses. The wave of arrests was carried out under the leadership of police officers from the Lachish district central unit (YAMAR) and fighters of the Border Police National Guard.

Police Commissioner Rav-Nitzav Dani Levy stated:

"The Israel Police continues to act decisively against serious and organized crime organizations; we will dismantle the protection racketeering infrastructure throughout the country."

As part of the joint investigation, evidence was gathered against dozens of suspects, including key targets known to the police's Southern District. This morning, the operation moved to the overt phase, when detectives and police officers from both units, alongside officers from the Sa'ar Brigade and other units, led a widespread raid on the suspects' homes. They were transferred for questioning at the Lachish district central unit and will be brought before the court later today for a hearing on extending their detention in accordance with the needs of the investigation.

The police statement noted:

"As part of the determined and ongoing struggle that the Southern District of the Israel Police is conducting against serious and organized crime, and in accordance with the policy of the Police Commissioner, Rav-Nitzav Dani Levy, in the uncompromising fight against criminal organizations and protection racketeering offenses, the Lachish district central unit, in cooperation with the Border Police National Guard fighters, conducted a large-scale investigation over the last few months."