Interior Ministry in Gaza Launches Major Security Operation Against Aid Looting Gangs

Gaza (Quds News Network)- The Ministry of Interior in Gaza has announced a large-scale security operation targeting outlaws, who have been looting humanitarian aid under the protection of Israeli forces. According to sources within the ministry, the crackdown led to the neutralization of over 20 members of the gangs involved, as reported by Al-Aqsa TV.

The security operation, conducted in collaboration with local tribal committees, is part of a broader plan to dismantle criminal networks that have been intercepting aid trucks destined for the besieged population in southern Gaza.

The Ministry emphasized that this operation is only the beginning of a comprehensive security campaign aimed at eradicating these gangs and punishing those involved.

Aid Looting Worsens Humanitarian Crisis

The ongoing looting of aid trucks has exacerbated the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, particularly in the south, where the scarcity of basic necessities due to the Israeli siege has led to growing fears of famine.

Officials clarified that the security campaign does not target any specific tribes but focuses on eliminating the widespread theft of aid, which has severely impacted the local population.

“The security forces will take firm action against anyone assisting these gangs,” a ministry official stated, highlighting that the crackdown has the full support of Palestinian factions in Gaza.

Israeli Involvement

Gaza’s security sources said they have intercepted communications between these gangs and Israeli forces, suggesting that Israel’s intelligence agency, Shin Bet, has been providing cover for the gangs’ operations. The same conclusion was echoed in a Haaretz investigation, which revealed that Israel’s army supports such gangs. This has been also confirmed by a Washington Post , which reported that An internal United Nations memo concluded last month that the gangs “may be benefiting from a passive if not active benevolence” or “protection” from the Israel Occupation Forces. One gang leader, the memo said, established a “military like compound” in an area “restricted, controlled and patrolled by the Israeli army.”

The sources also reported that some of the gang leaders are directly collaborating with Israeli forces, receiving weapons and ammunition to destabilize the area.

Ismail Thawabta, the Director General of Gaza’s Government Media Office, confirmed that many gang members have a history of criminal offenses and are convicted felons. He said that these groups coordinate with Israeli forces to locate and intercept aid trucks, especially after Israel’s recent control over the Rafah border crossing and Egypt’s decision to close it.

Since Israel took control of the Rafah crossing in May, the flow of aid into Gaza has been severely restricted. The closure of the Rafah crossing has forced most humanitarian aid to enter through Karem Abu Salem and newly opened Kisufim crossings. However, reports indicate that armed gangs have taken advantage of the security vacuum in these areas to hijack aid shipments, while Israeli forces turn a blind eye.

The looting of aid has not only deprived Gazans of essential supplies but has also led to tragic consequences. According to multiple reports, the lack of food and medicine has resulted in deaths due to hunger and inadequate healthcare, further deepening the humanitarian crisis.

A National Effort to Restore Order

In a bid to restore order, Gaza’s Interior Ministry has vowed to continue its crackdown on these criminal networks. “Today’s operation is just the beginning,” a ministry source stated, promising a relentless campaign to eliminate those involved in aid theft.

Israel has systematically targeted personnel affiliated with Gaza’s Ministry of Interior, with a particular focus on police forces throughout.

Observers believe that Israel is intent on pushing forward plans aimed at creating chaos and a breakdown of security within the Gaza Strip.

Since the onset of the genocide on October 7, Israel has been targeting police forces in a deliberate effort to trigger a “security collapse” in the region.

According to the Ministry of Interior, Israeli attacks intensify whenever the police take steps to restore order and curb chaos. The Israeli military executed a plan to dismantle Gaza’s security apparatus by targeting police leaders, officers, and personnel who are responsible for maintaining public safety and protecting the home front.

The attacks have also included police officers escorting trucks delivering food and medical aid to Gaza. This demonstrates Israel’s intention to create conditions that encourage looting and theft, further fueling instability.