Georgian crime gang members arrested for stealing phones on NIS 1M.

The arrests followed an infiltration operation by the central unit of the central district, targeting the flight, receiving stolen and conspiracy goods.

Six members of a Georgian crime gang were arrested by detectives from the central district after having allegedly targeted more than 100 elderly victims across Israel. The suspects are accused of having stolen from portfolios and victims and withdrawing more than 1.5 million nis from their bank accounts, according to Israeli police.

The arrests followed an infiltration operation by the central unit of the central district, which lasted several districts and several weeks, targeting the flight, receiving stolen and conspiracy.

The investigation revealed a criminal network led by six Georgian nationals, targeting the elderly victims, aged 70 to 90, across the country.

More than 100 cases were linked to this gang, with complaints from regions such as Sheflera, Gush Dan, Ashdod and Haifa. The survey involved cooperation with several professional organizations, including safety companies, banks and public transport.

During the investigation, detectives discovered a coherent criminal scheme. Gang members, often in their thirties, surrounded elderly victims in public buses, trapping them in a “sandwich” formation to prevent escape.

While a gang member distracted the victim, another stole his wallet and phone. The stolen items were then used to withdraw large sums of money from the victims’ bank accounts, totaling more than 1.5 million NIS.

The suspects have stopped and evidence entered

Monday morning, after moving the investigation in its open phase, detectives from central and southern districts arrested the suspects, which all live in these regions.

During the arrest, the police seized various relevant evidence. The suspects are planned for a hearing, where the police will request an extension of their detention.

Commander of the Central District Maj.-GEN. Yair Hetzroni praised the unity of the central district for its rapid response in the case, stressing the importance of protecting vulnerable citizens. He also underlined the rapid investigation process which led to the arrest of the gang and urged the police to continue the case to the maximum extent.