Full Breakdown
Theft of Three Rifles from Israel’s Shayetet 13 Naval Commando Base Triggers Joint Police-Military Probe
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Theft and Initial Discovery
In the early hours of a Tuesday morning, three M-16 rifles were taken directly from soldiers stationed at the Shayetet 13 naval commando base in Atlit. The loss was uncovered shortly after 3:30 a.m., prompting an immediate investigation by the Israel Police Coastal District’s major crimes unit and the Military Police Criminal Investigation Division’s northern unit. Authorities quickly suspected an insider’s involvement.
Investigation and Arrests
The probe has led to four arrests to date. A 27-year-old resident of Netanya—known to police from prior theft, burglary, drug and assault cases and arrested a month earlier—has been detained on a central role in the theft. The suspect’s account to investigators was deemed inconsistent with the evidence, according to police.
A serving IDF soldier from the base was also taken into custody; a military court extended his detention until the following Wednesday for investigative purposes. Two additional civilians, also residents of Netanya, had their detentions extended—one by five days and the other by one week—while awaiting court hearings.
All suspects remain under investigation, and the stolen rifles have since been recovered.
Official Response
The military confirmed that a joint investigation was launched and that findings will be submitted to the Military Advocate-General Corps for review before being forwarded to the Military Prosecution.
Data Summary
- Weapons stolen: three M-16 rifles.
- Arrested individuals: one soldier, three civilians (including the Netanya resident).
- Detention extensions: soldier until next Wednesday; civilians extended by five days and one week respectively.
Next Steps
Investigators will complete their inquiry and transfer the case file to the Military Prosecution for review. No further arrests have been announced, and the authorities have not disclosed a timeline for potential charges.