Gamal Hakroosh, 59, has become the highest-ranking Muslim officer in Israel Police’s history after being appointed Deputy Commissioner this week.

Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan addressed the ceremony, explaining to date the Israeli Arab community did not receive equal services and this is all changing. In addition to Hakroosh’s promotion, Israel is planning to build news stations in many Arab cities and municipalities as well as refurbishing others. Additional manpower is also being hired to bring additional minorities into the department to better serve the various populations in the country including Arabs, chareidim, and Druse.

The newly-appointed deputy commissioner will be in charge of Israel Police activities in Arab municipalities.

Hakroosh is a resident of the northern community of Kfar Kana. He joined the police force in 1978.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem / Photo: Israel Police spokesman)