Armed Robbery Suspects Disguised as IDF Soldiers Arrested in Dahariya

Earlier today, armed suspects disguised as Israeli soldiers allegedly carried out a robbery at a jewelry store in Dahariya, in the Mount Chevron area. Security forces launched an immediate pursuit, arresting three suspects a short time later, Israeli police said.

(Video used in accordance with 27a)

The incident raised immediate concern among security officials due to the use of IDF-style uniforms, weapons, and a vehicle resembling those used by Israeli forces in the Judea Brigade sector. The IDF emphasized shortly afterward that the suspects were not IDF soldiers. Footage from the incident and subsequent arrests has since circulated online.

According to police, the suspects were identified as Bedouin citizens of southern Israel. Investigators said the group arrived in Dahariya in a vehicle resembling a security vehicle, complete with emergency lights. The suspects were wearing IDF uniforms and protective gear, including body armor and helmets, and were armed with rifles and a handgun. At a certain point, they forced their way into a Palestinian-owned jewelry store and stole its contents before fleeing the scene.

Security forces from the Chevron police station, together with Border Police fighters operating in Judea and Samaria, were dispatched following the report. During the search, Border Police fighters identified a black Savana vehicle matching the description provided by authorities as it sped southward.

At one stage, the vehicle stopped and several suspects exited. The forces fired warning shots into the air and detained one suspect at the scene. Additional forces continued the pursuit, and the remaining suspects were arrested shortly afterward. 

During the arrests, forces seized three M16 rifles and one handgun that were in the suspects’ possession. The suspects were taken into custody for questioning as the investigation continues.

Security correspondent Hillel Bitton Rosen warned of the broader implications of the incident. “This incident is a glaring red warning light for the security establishment, which remains trapped in a deep conceptual failure,” he said. “Without going into details, the use of the specific vehicle, uniforms, and military equipment closely resembles those used by special units in similar and highly sensitive operations.”

Israeli authorities said no injuries were reported during the robbery or the arrests. Police stressed that the investigation remains ongoing as they examine how the suspects obtained the uniforms, weapons, and equipment used in the incident.