Four Israelis indicted for arms smuggling network across Egyptian border

Security agencies say they have uncovered a weapons smuggling network that operated along Israel’s southern border with Egypt using drones, arresting four Israeli citizens from the Negev who were allegedly involved in the operation.

In a joint statement, the Shin Bet, the IDF and Israel Police say the suspects were detained about a month ago following a joint investigation into drone-based arms smuggling from Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula into Israel.

According to the probe, the network carried out multiple significant weapons smuggling attempts using drones. In one incident, four MAG machine guns were seized after an IDF force shot down a drone transporting the weapons. Investigators also found that members of the cell monitored IDF radio communications and were involved in additional smuggling activity along the Egyptian border.

Indictments were filed today against the four suspects at the Beersheba District Court by the Southern District Attorney’s Office.

The security agencies warn that weapons smuggling into Israel serves as a supply channel for terror groups and poses a serious threat to national security, stressing that they will continue efforts to thwart such activity and prosecute those involved.