Massive raid in Atarot: Attempt to distribute counterfeit food thwarted
Ministry of Agriculture inspectors uncovered 55 tons of dairy and food products smuggled from the Palestinian Authority in Atarot. Three refrigerated trucks were ready for distribution, but inspectors intervened and broke into the facility after the suspect refused to cooperate.
Against the backdrop of an increase in attempts to smuggle food products ahead of the Tishrei holidays, inspectors from the Central Unit for Enforcement and Investigations (Pitzuach) raided a warehouse in the Atarot industrial zone.
According to the investigation, the warehouse stored smuggled goods in abnormal volumes, intended for marketing to the public in Israel ahead of the holiday. The operation was carried out in cooperation with the National Food Service of the Ministry of Health and with the assistance of the Shuafat and Atarot stations of the Israel Police, following prolonged intelligence activity.
During the raid, approximately 55 tons of dairy products and other food items originating from the Palestinian Authority were seized. Among the confiscated goods were large quantities of milk, yogurts, cream, cheeses, labaneh, milk drinks, desserts, and processed cheese in buckets, alongside hummus and various types of salads. Three trucks loaded with products, already prepared for distribution, were also found at the site.
Upon the arrival of the inspectors, the suspect refused to cooperate, forcing the team to break into the complex. The suspects on-site were questioned and summoned for further investigation. Due to concerns for public health, a destruction order was issued for the goods. As part of the inspection, suspicions of tax offenses also arose, and findings will be transferred to the Income Tax Department for further handling.
Moshe Arak, Director of the Central Unit for Enforcement and Investigations (Pitzuach) at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, stated:
«This is an abnormal seizure of dozens of tons of food products that were moments before their distribution to the public in Israel. When dairy and animal-based food products are brought into Israel without permits and supervision, it is impossible to know their origin, whether the animals from which they were produced were healthy, and if the products were stored and transported under appropriate conditions. Therefore, it cannot be guaranteed that they are safe for consumption. We call on the public to purchase animal-based products only from licensed businesses, and to ensure that the packaging is intact and includes clear labeling and text in Hebrew. We will continue to act decisively against those who endanger public health.»
