Jerusalem District Police officers and Border Police troops raided a home in the Shuafat refugee camp in East Jerusalem during the week, following suspicions that a local resident was holding a large quantity of weapons and other combat equipment. The search uncovered an arsenal that included three M-16 assault rifles, ammunition, magazines, weapon parts and a telescopic sight.
The operation was carried out by detectives from the Shafat Police Station, Border Police troops from the Jerusalem Envelope sector, Jerusalem riot police officers and the police canine unit. The suspect was arrested and taken for questioning at the Shafat Police Station.
What did police find inside the suspect’s home in Shuafat?
According to the Jerusalem District Police, officers seized three M-16 rifles, weapon parts, 10 magazines, approximately 80 rifle rounds and an ammunition belt. They also found six gas cartridges, a telescopic sight and additional components suspected of being used to manufacture or assemble weapons.
An axe and a knife were also seized at the scene. All the findings were collected and transferred for examination in an effort to determine the origin of the weapons, how they were obtained and what purpose they may have been intended to serve.
Following his questioning at the Shafat Police Station, the suspect was brought before the Jerusalem Magistrate’s Court. At the request of police, the court extended his detention until Thursday, June 18, 2026.
What other weapons and equipment were discovered in Shuafat?
During another targeted search in the refugee camp, police seized seven pistol magazines, 12 additional magazines, a large quantity of ammunition, a smoke grenade and 20 packages suspected of containing explosive material.
Officers also found numerous weapon-related parts and accessories, including six handguards, eight pistol grips, six magazine base plates, a bipod, an M-16 stock, magazine pouches, a pistol holster, weapon straps and safety cords. The investigation is continuing, and police are examining whether there is a connection between the items found in the two searches.
Why is police activity being intensified in East Jerusalem?
Jerusalem District Police said the operations in East Jerusalem and villages near the security barrier are intended to prevent weapons from reaching criminal elements or terrorist infrastructure.
The Jerusalem District Police said: “Jerusalem District Police officers and Border Police troops continue to operate day and night in East Jerusalem and in villages near the security barrier, with the aim of thwarting, locating, preventing and arresting anyone involved in this activity, and protecting the security of Jerusalem’s residents.”
The investigation into the suspect remains underway. Police have not yet said whether additional arrests are expected following the seizure of the weapons and ammunition.
