Vandalism of Sergeant Yehuda Peretz memorial: two suspects arrested

Security forces arrested two suspects in the Bedouin village of Bir Hadaj on Tuesday for vandalizing a memorial to the late IDF soldier, Sergeant Yehuda Peretz, located in the settlement of Retamim. The arrests follow an investigation into an incident that occurred last month, when the memorial site dedicated to the soldier was defaced.

Upon receiving reports of the vandalism, police launched an investigation, collecting evidence at the scene to identify and locate the perpetrators. Following a period of covert intelligence gathering, the operation moved to an overt phase.

The operation was a joint effort involving the Southern District Border Police (Magav) undercover unit, the Shin Bet, detectives from the Segev Shalom station, and the Israel Police aerial unit. Forces entered the village of Bir Hadaj covertly and conducted a coordinated raid, surprising both suspects and arresting them at their homes.

The detainees have been transferred for further questioning. The police stated that security forces will continue to act decisively against any damage to national symbols and memorials, utilizing all available resources to bring offenders to justice.