Three M-16 rifles were stolen from soldiers at the Israeli Navy’s Shayetet 13 commando base in Atlit early Tuesday morning, shortly after 3:30 a.m.

The incident occurred at one of the IDF’s most heavily guarded facilities and prompted an immediate investigation.

Initial findings raised suspicions that someone from inside the base was involved. A soldier serving at the facility was arrested for questioning on suspicion of stealing the weapons from the soldiers.

Due to the seriousness of the incident and the potential spread of weapons, the investigation is being conducted jointly by the Military Police Criminal Investigation Division and the Israel Police, as authorities work to locate the missing rifles.

Following the investigation, the findings will be transferred to the Military Advocate General’s Office for consideration of criminal charges.

The IDF said the incident is currently under investigation.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)