Jerusalem and Jerusalem Envelope Border Police officers on Sunday night discovered 18 illegal infiltrators concealed inside a false compartment underneath a truck.

The truck was located following a pursuit that began after the driver fled an inspection at the Mizmoria Crossing.

According to police, the truck arrived at the crossing during a Border Police operation and was stopped for inspection by forces at the scene. Shortly afterward, the driver began driving and fled the crossing.

Police said that during his escape, the suspect drove dangerously, damaged infrastructure at the crossing, and struck two civilian vehicles. Border Police officers launched a pursuit.

Following a short chase, the truck was located in the village of Al-Muntar, but the driver had already fled the scene. Forces began searching the area in an attempt to locate him.

During a search of the truck, officers discovered a false compartment underneath the vehicle. Inside, 18 illegal infiltrators had been concealed.

All 18 illegal infiltrators were arrested and transferred for further processing and questioning. Border Police said its officers would continue working to thwart attempts to illegally enter Israel and transport illegal infiltrators, and to protect public safety.