An "Incalculably High Price": Israeli Police Detective Niv Peretz Killed in ATV Chase
An Israeli police officer was fatally shot last night during a chase in the Wadi Ara area, as police pursued suspects on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV).
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Sergeant Major Niv Peretz, a 29-year-old detective at the Umm al-Fahm police station, was killed in the line of duty. According to a preliminary investigation, police detectives were on a mission in the village of Zalafeh when they spotted a group of suspects involved in an illegal weapons deal.
During the ensuing chase, the suspects opened fire from the ATV. Peretz was critically wounded and later died of his injuries at a hospital.
Following the incident, police launched a large-scale search operation in the area. Fourteen suspects have since been arrested in connection with the event and are being held for questioning, with police planning to request an extension of their detention.
Police Commissioner Danny Levy issued a statement mourning Peretz's death. "We bow our heads at the death of Detective Niv Peretz. I and the entire Israel Police embrace the family in its difficult hour and will support it forever," Levy said. "Sergeant Major Peretz acted with determination and bravery, as part of a proactive operational activity to thwart a weapons deal, and met his death while engaging the enemy. The Israel Police paid an incalculably high price last night."