Nine Palestinian Arab adults and minors were apprehended on Tuesday during an enforcement activity against the phenomenon of panhandling at the Tzofim Junction on Route 55 near the Eliyahu Crossing.
The operation comes amid a recent rise in the phenomenon and the concern it causes among area residents and drivers.
Children, teens, and adults come to intersections in the area, where they approach cars and walk between the vehicles while drivers wait at the traffic lights. Beyond the inconvenience the phenomenon creates for drivers, it raises concerns about a possible safety hazard and security concerns associated with being present between vehicles.
Tuesday's arrests were conducted by Ephraim Regional Border Police and the Ephraim District Coordination and Liaison Unit. During the operation, the forces arrested nine Arabs, adults and minors, who were caught panhandling at the Tzofim Junction. They were taken for further processing and holding.
Karnei Shomron Local Council Chief Yonatan Kuznitz welcomed the operation and said that in recent months he had repeatedly contacted security officials to demand increased enforcement. Among others, he spoke with Ephraim Brigade commander Col. Faiz Fares and Ariel Police Station commander Supt. Ital Almog, calling for continuous action until the phenomenon is eradicated.
Kuznitz welcomed the enforcement activity but stressed that, from his perspective, it was only a first step: “Following the discussions I held recently with security officials and our demand that the phenomenon at the intersections be addressed, another enforcement operation was carried out in the area yesterday. I welcome the activity, but the real test will be whether enforcement continues."
He said it must be ensured that the operation does not remain a one-time event: “I will continue monitoring the situation to ensure that the security forces prevent the dangerous roadside vending at the intersection. We will make sure that enforcement is not sporadic, but consistent and ongoing."
Kuznitz added that he would remain in contact with security officials and continue demanding action: “Residents of Karnei Shomron and the surrounding area must be able to travel safely, without harassment or fear. Even if it takes time, I am determined to eradicate this phenomenon."