A driver suspected of operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs, a 15-year-old boy who had never obtained a driver’s license, and dozens of traffic violations detected within hours: these were among the findings of a Jerusalem District Police enforcement operation in Abu Ghosh and Mevaseret Zion, along major roads west of Jerusalem.
The operation, led by the Harel Police Station with the participation of Jerusalem Traffic Police officers and detectives from the Traffic Division’s central investigative unit, focused on violations that endanger road users, with particular attention to motorcycles and other two-wheeled vehicles.
A total of 28 traffic citations were issued during the operation. Of these, 15 were given to drivers caught using mobile phones while driving, two for careless driving, and four for mechanical or safety defects involving two-wheeled vehicles.
But behind the figures were two particularly unusual incidents, highlighting the dangers posed not only by reckless behavior on the road but also by individuals choosing to operate vehicles while unfit or legally unauthorized to do so.
What Happened During the Police Chase in Abu Ghosh?
During the operation in Abu Ghosh, Traffic Division detectives stopped a 32-year-old local resident suspected of driving under the influence of drugs.
According to police, the driver attempted to flee after the detectives identified themselves. His escape attempt triggered a brief pursuit, which ended when officers apprehended him and conducted further examinations.
A test returned positive results for substances suspected to be hashish and cocaine. Following the findings, the suspect’s driver’s license was suspended, and his vehicle was impounded and prohibited from use for 30 days.
How Was a 15-Year-Old Caught Riding Without a License Near Jerusalem?
Another incident unfolded when an officer from Jerusalem’s motorcycle patrol spotted a Sur-Ron electric motorcycle and stopped its rider for inspection. Officers soon discovered that the rider was a 15-year-old boy who had never obtained a driver’s license.
The minor was detained and transferred to Jerusalem Traffic Police for further processing. He was issued a summons to appear in court, and following a hearing, the motorcycle was also prohibited from use for 30 days.
Both incidents were among the violations uncovered during the enforcement operation, once again raising concerns about road safety on the routes connecting Jerusalem with surrounding communities. Alongside mobile phone use while driving and vehicle safety defects, officers encountered suspected drug-impaired driving and a minor operating a motorcycle without ever having been legally qualified to ride.
