Teen Freed in Gaza Hostage Deal Rearrested with 25 Explosive Devices — The Bureau News Nigeria News Today
By Safiyat Muhammed | The Bureau News
A 16-year-old suspected terrorist from Bethlehem who was recently freed as part of the Gaza hostage exchange deal has been rearrested by Israeli forces after intelligence linked him to renewed involvement in terror-related activity.
According to Israeli police and military sources, the teenager, whose name has not been released due to his age, was apprehended late Wednesday night following a coordinated raid carried out by multiple security units in the West Bank.
Previously Arrested with 25 Explosive Devices
Authorities disclosed that about a year ago, the same suspect had been arrested for manufacturing and supplying 25 explosive devices to terrorist elements operating in the region. A criminal investigation had previously been opened against him for direct involvement in the use of the explosives.
The Bureau News gathered that the teen was among the detainees released under the recent Gaza hostage swap agreement — a deal that has drawn international attention and controversy over the re-arrest of former prisoners accused of returning to militant activities.
Israeli Forces Conduct Midnight Operation
Overnight Wednesday, intelligence obtained by the West Bank District Intelligence Unit—cross-verified with other security agencies—indicated the suspect’s renewed participation in terror operations. Acting swiftly, Israeli forces launched a joint operation involving the Hilaf Unit, Yasam Special Patrol Unit, and Border Police K-9 handlers.
The suspect was arrested at his home in Bethlehem and taken into custody for interrogation at the Crime Fighting Unit in the West Bank Police District headquarters.
Investigation Underway
Security sources said the investigation will determine the extent of his involvement with active militant networks and whether he has resumed producing or supplying explosives since his release. Authorities described his case as “a matter of grave national concern,” citing risks posed by re-radicalization among released detainees.
While Israeli officials have not commented publicly on this particular arrest, they have repeatedly warned that many prisoners released under political or humanitarian arrangements “return to the path of terror” within months of regaining freedom.
The Bureau News will continue to follow developments surrounding this case and related counterterrorism operations across the West Bank and Gaza Strip.