In Detail: A Network for Smuggling and Purchasing Stolen Gold for Huge Sums Discovered in Tulkarem

SadaNews - The General Investigations Department of the Tulkarem Police revealed on Tuesday details of a crime involving the theft, smuggling, and purchase of stolen gold, as well as a robbery that took place in the Palestinian territories a year and a half ago, during which approximately 13 kg of gold, large sums of money, and checks were stolen from a jewelry store in the town of Baqa al-Gharbiyye.

The media spokesperson for the police, Brigadier General Luay Arzaiqat, stated that the owner of the stolen jewelry store filed an official complaint two days ago with the General Investigations Department of the Tulkarem Police, reporting that his store was robbed on 11/12/2023, and that approximately 13 kg of gold, 140,000 shekels, 3,000 dollars, and customer checks worth 150,000 shekels were stolen.

Immediately, a specialized team was formed to conduct intensive search and investigation procedures, monitor the sale of jewelry in the local markets, and surveillance of several individuals. One of the merchants was suspected, and after apprehending him and taking his statements, he revealed that he purchased the gold from two individuals from the inside through a local intermediary. The investigations also revealed a dispute between the sellers and the buyer over accusations of tampering with the scales and stealing 1 kg of gold during the delivery process.

Arzaiqat added that the General Investigations Department brought in several individuals involved in the mediation and transportation of the gold, including a well-known jewelry dealer and other individuals from inside and outside the province, and their testimonies were recorded.

Arzaiqat confirmed that four individuals among the suspects have been detained pending the completion of legal procedures and the uncovering of all details related to the crime.