Shin Bet says terror cell responsible for West Bank shootings arrested

Three minors are suspected of carrying out four shooting attacks against the Ofra settlement.

By ANNA AHRONHEIM, JPOST.COM STAFF
Updated: DECEMBER 7, 2016 23:38
IDF and Shin Bet arrest terror shooting ring at Ofra in the West Bank. Credit: IDF
The Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) recently arrested a terrorist cell suspect carried out several shooting attacks against the Ofra settlement in the Binyamin region of the West Bank.
During the arrests, which was done in cooperation with the IDF and the Border Police reconnaissance unit, weapons and vehicles allegedly used by the suspects during the attacks were seized.
The cell, which consisted of three minors, carried out four shooting attacks between October and November 2016, using locally made weapons, the Shin Bet said. Relatives of the cell members were also detained, on suspicion that they were involved in hiding the weapons used to carry out attacks.
“The activity of the cell demonstrates the high threat level of a terrorist cell with access to weapons and the ability to manufacture weapons,” the agency said, adding that the suspects have been transferred to the military prosecution where charges will be filed in the coming days.
The security forces have increased their efforts to uncover workshops producing illegal weapons, carrying out near-nightly raids in the West Bank, shutting down weapons factories and confiscating arms, greatly reducing the number of bombs and other weapons that could end up in the hands of attackers.
“The Shin Bet, together with the IDF and Israel Police, will continue to work in order to uncover and foil terrorist activities,” the agency said.