Gilad Erdan
Gilad ErdanTomer Neuberg/Flash 90

For the first time, the Israel Police will carry out a weapon-collecting operation in the framework of which no criminal proceedings will be instituted against those who return the weapons, and they will be immune from prosecution.

The operation will be published in Arab media and will take place in dozens of communities. The collection sites were selected by local Arab authorities and approved by Israel Police.

The goal of the campaign is to increase the struggle against the phenomenon of illegal weapons in Arab society. Those who return weapons will not have to identify themselves, and no legal action will be taken for the illegal possession of weapons. Similarly, civilians who return illegal weapons will be immune from indictments for possession of firearms and weapons.

Minister of Public Security Gilad Erdan said that "The Arab sector is the main victim of the phenomenon of illegal weapons. We decided to focus our efforts on fighting illegal weapons, and therefore we are embarking on an unprecedented operation that will give citizens an opportunity to get rid of an illegal weapon that they possess without criminal proceedings.

"Holding [illegal] arms is a serious offense, and weapons often reach the hands of criminals and terrorists. We are fighting this phenomenon by all means to bring about a reduction in shooting incidents and use of illegal weapons, " Erdan added.

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