Following a police raid on an agricultural compound near Ness Ziona, where around 150 roosters were found kept in cramped cages for illegal cockfighting and gambling, authorities in Jerusalem are now examining whether similar unregulated gatherings could occur in areas popular among foreign workers on weekends. The city has seen growing flows of migrant laborers on Fridays and Saturdays, when leisure spaces often become informal meeting hubs.
פעילות פלילית של ארגון הימורים על קרבות בין בעלי חיים pic.twitter.com/eszfZ959rv
— jerusalem online (@Jlmonline) October 26, 2025
Police Raid and Arrests
According to the Israel Police, the exposure followed a covert investigation led by Central District officers together with the Environmental Protection division, the Ministry of Agriculture’s enforcement unit, and a municipal veterinarian. Two foreign workers suspected of running the site, along with the property owner, were detained for questioning. Evidence collected at the venue will be transferred for prosecution by the authorized bodies.
Investigators say the compound included two makeshift arenas where roosters were forced to fight while bets were placed on the outcomes. The birds were reportedly selected, tagged, and conditioned for repeated combat, contrary to animal welfare regulations.
Why Jerusalem is Now Reviewing
Jerusalem functions as a social and work center for many foreign workers arriving from communities across the region, particularly over the weekend. In recent years, the municipality and police have increased inspections in public gathering areas, open markets, and zones where informal trade may occur without regulatory oversight.
Animal welfare organizations active in Jerusalem report a rise in inquiries regarding birds and other animals kept in improper or overcrowded conditions. Enforcement officials in the city emphasize that no active cockfighting ring has been identified in Jerusalem, but say that following the Central District exposure, monitoring and cooperation with welfare groups will be expanded during upcoming weekends.
