Arms, millions of shekels in narcotics seized by police in major strike on Abu Latif network

In addition to the arms cache, authorities discovered explosive bricks, a standard military explosive, and multiple remote activation devices for the explosives.

A weapon is found, being examined by police.

(photo credit: POLICE SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)

OCTOBER 20, 2026 08:44

A significant stockpile of weapons, explosive devices, and illegal drugs was discovered during the weekend in an open field close to the village of Rama in the Galilee region. Police believe this cache belonged to the Abu Latif criminal organization based in the local area.

The operation resulted in the seizure of 12 firearms, numerous magazines, hundreds of ammunition rounds, explosive materials, and more than three kilograms of a substance suspected to be cocaine, valued at millions of shekels.

The raid followed intelligence that identified the site as a key storage location for the criminal group. Dozens of officers from the Central Unit (YAMAR) of the Northern District, supported by Border Police and National Guard personnel, spent hours searching the difficult terrain before recovering the items.

Among the seized weapons were eight rifles, including M16s, Kalashnikovs, and a shotgun, plus four handguns of different models. Dozens of magazines, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and weapon spare parts were also recovered. In addition to the firearms, explosive bricks, a standard IDF explosive device, and dozens of remote triggering systems for explosives were located.

Security forces further seized tactical vests with ceramic plate armor and a vehicle equipped with forged license plates. All items were sent to the Israel Police forensic and explosives laboratories for detailed examination and evidence collection. The analysis aims to help identify those responsible for concealing the weapons, explosives, and drugs. No arrests have been reported so far in connection with the discovery.

Latif crime organization tied to murder, extortion investigations

The Abu Latif crime organization, which originated in Rama and built influence across the Galilee, has been viewed in recent years as a top priority for law enforcement. Its reach extended beyond northern Israel, with connections to multiple probes involving violence, extortion under threat, collection of protection payments, and efforts to control infrastructure projects and public tenders.

In April 2025, charges were brought against the group leader, Latif Abu Latif, and eleven other suspects in a case concerning the takeover of tenders through extortion under threat. The indictment described how the organization used intimidation against contractors and business owners to secure high-value public contracts.

Organization members were also connected to the murder of Fatin Kizel in Maghar in March 2024. Kizel, a cousin and close associate of the mayor-elect, was killed roughly two weeks after the local elections.

A combined Shin Bet and police inquiry suggested the killing was intended to intimidate the mayor and sway his decisions. In July of that year, indictments were filed against those implicated in the incident.

Superintendent Shlomi Asraf, head of the detective branch in YAMAR North, stated that the seizure represents a serious moral and financial setback to the crime organization's operations.

Police noted that the effort aligns with the proactive approach directed by Northern District Commander Maj.-Gen. Meir Eliyahu, following goals established by Police Commissioner Inspector General Danny Levy to confront organized crime networks and enhance resident safety in the North.