While senior IDF officers were enjoying the moment, the ceremony marking the change in the central command, someone was busy sifting through pockets and purses, making off with cash, cellular telephones and other objects.

Present were IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-General Gabi Ashkenazi, incoming central district commander, Major-General Avi Mizrachi, outgoing commander Major-General Gadi Shamni and many other senior military officials, as well as Defense Minister Ehud Barak.

The wallets, phones and cash of dozens of soldiers from Charuv were stolen, prompting military police to act. The gates of the base were closed and everyone leaving was inspected, resulting in prolonged delays. Despite the effort, the stolen goods were not recovered. The investigation continues.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)