Illegal Negev camel race intercepted by Southern District Police
Camel races, though a longstanding tradition in Bedouin communities, are often accompanied by other crimes when organized illegally.
An illegal camel race set to take place in a firing range in Israel’s Negev was prevented by Southern District Police, Israel Police said on Friday.
Forces were deployed to the area near Route 222 in Bir Hadaj, a Bedouin agricultural town, after intelligence indicated preparations were underway for the race.
Upon arrival, police identified vehicles, carts, and participants arriving at the site.
Officers from the Shagiv Shalom station, in cooperation with fighters from the Yoav unit, Border Police, and the National Guard of the Southern District of the Israel Police, raided the site with the assistance and guidance of the air unit, according to police.
Two minors attempting to flee and hide in nearby bushes were detained for further questioning at the Shagiv Shalom station.
Police also seized the camel found near the individuals.
Camel racing a tradition in Middle East, Bedouin communities
Camel racing a tradition in Middle East, Bedouin communities
Camel racing is a popular sport across the Middle East and a tradition in Bedouin communities.
In Israel, Bedouins from different tribes travel to attend the event alongside Jewish residents from nearby communities.
The first legal camel race was held in the Negev in 2024 and was attended by thousands of spectators.
The Israel Police Southern District promoted and arranged the event to encourage lawfulness following warnings from police that illegal races were accompanied by other crimes, such as shooting incidents and animal cruelty.
"For years, the camel races in the Negev were a symbol of the loss of governance and lawlessness," Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli had said.
The first legal race, he said, was a reflection of the uniqueness of the Bedouin culture and "an important step to strengthen governance in the Negev and the integration of Bedouin society into Israel.
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