Police arrest 30 in Jerusalem drug raid following undercover investigation

The suspects were arraigned at Jerusalem Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, where a judge remanded all of them for several days as the investigation continues.

By DANIEL K. EISENBUD
Updated: APRIL 20, 2017 00:50
Hashish and marijuana seized by police. (photo credit: POLICE SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)
Hashish and marijuana seized by police.
(photo credit: POLICE SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)
Police on Wednesday arrested 30 suspected southern Jerusalem drug traffickers following a protracted undercover investigation.
According to police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld, an undercover agent several months ago infiltrated the drug ring comprised of six Arab-Israelis and 24 Jewish Israelis in order to collect evidence.
“After information was received by the police regarding drug trafficking and drug use in the area, the operation was initiated,” Rosenfeld said.
“During a complicated and intensive investigation, the agent established his position and acquired the trust of the suspects and made dozens of transactions for the purchase of dangerous drugs – including cocaine, hashish, ecstasy and marijuana – worth hundreds of thousands of shekels.”
After a sufficient amount of evidence was gathered, Jerusalem Police District Commander Yoram Halevy dispatched dozens of officers early Wednesday morning to raid the homes of all 30 suspects and make the arrests.
“Large quantities of drugs were confiscated when Border Police, detectives and other officers raided their apartments,” Rosenfeld said, noting that a gag order precluded police from identifying the suspects or the neighborhoods in which they reside.
“This is one of the many police operations taking place in order to prevent drugs from getting on the streets of Jerusalem.
And more arrests are expected,” he added.
The arraignment was held at Jerusalem Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, where a judge remanded all 30 suspects for several days. The investigation is still continuing.