Jerusalem Man Found Dead Near Bethlehem as Police Seize Stolen IDF Arsenal

Police confirmed on Monday that the body of an East Jerusalem man in his 40s was discovered in the Wadi Rahal area near Bethlehem. Forensic investigators and Israeli Defense Forces soldiers collected evidence at the scene before the remains were transferred to the Abu Kabir Forensic Institute. Initial findings indicate the incident was criminal in nature, with officers ruling out a terror-related motive.

Security operations continued across the region over the weekend, resulting in multiple arrests and a major weapons recovery. In Bethlehem, forces raided a home belonging to a Palestinian resident with suspected ties to Hamas. Investigators confiscated a loaded hunting rifle, IDF uniforms, and technological items. Two suspects were taken to the Ma'ale Adumim police station, where they face charges for possessing illegal weapons and unauthorized military equipment.

A separate search near Hebron led to the arrest of a man in his 30s. Officers found him in possession of a hunting rifle and a large quantity of ammunition. The coordinated effort also included a targeted sweep in Kalansuwa, a majority-Arab city in central Israel, aimed at reducing violent crime.

In Kalansuwa, police located a cache of weapons stolen from the IDF in an open area. The seizure included one Kalashnikov rifle, three M-16 assault rifles, eight handguns, six fragmentation grenades, two stun grenades, and three tactical vests. Investigators also recovered thousands of rounds of ammunition. A police explosives expert handled the grenades after the discovery. Two family members present during the raid were arrested and taken for questioning as the investigation proceeds.

In Rahat, officers rescued a man found chained to the floor of a home during a search for illegal weapons. His leg was shackled to the ground. Preliminary findings suggest his family members restrained him due to drug use. The man's brother was arrested and taken to the local police station.

The arrested suspects from Bethlehem and Hebron remain in custody for further investigation. Police stated that the Kalansuwa investigation is ongoing. All seized items have been submitted as potential evidence.