The joy of Chol Hamoed nearly turned to tragedy this week, when an unauthorized horse-and-buggy operation—run without municipal oversight, veterinary clearance, or any legal permit—was making rounds through Bnei Brak’s crowded streets, and wound up hurting a baby.

According to police, a toddler sustained moderate injuries when one of these unlicensed horse-drawn carriages struck him as it moved through a public area. Emergency services responded swiftly, preventing what could have been a far more tragic outcome.

In response, Bnei Brak’s municipal police units, in coordination with the regional veterinary authority and the Agriculture Ministry’s enforcement division, launched an aggressive crackdown on the rogue operator.

Authorities report that the individual committed, under threat of legal and administrative action, not to continue operating the carriage without obtaining prior approval. Failure to comply may result in both criminal prosecution and fines from tax enforcement agencies.

Remember: Chol hamoed entertainment should never come at the expense of sakanas nefashos or disregard for communal safety.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)