Israeli security forces arrested five Palestinian teenagers overnight on suspicion of establishing and belonging to a terror militia known as the “Sa’ir Brigades,” which authorities say carried out firebomb attacks, stone-throwing and arson in the Yehuda region.

The suspects, all approximately 15 years old and residents of Sa’ir, recently organized themselves into an illegal military group, according to investigators.

Authorities suspect the group’s members hurled Molotov cocktails and rocks at Israeli vehicles, roads and communities. They are also suspected of setting wooded areas near Israeli communities on fire with the intention of having the flames spread into the communities, and tearing down Israeli flags along roadsides.

The five were taken for questioning, and police are expected to seek an extension of their detention.

In a separate intelligence-directed operation in Beit Ula, security forces searched the home of a local resident in his 60s and seized weapons, ammunition and tens of thousands of shekels in cash.

The items recovered included an Egyptian-made Star pistol, Glock pistol parts, dozens of 9mm rounds and fireworks batteries. The resident was arrested and taken for questioning.

Police also arrested a suspect accused of driving a vehicle stolen from Kiryat Malachi through several roadblocks near Gush Etzion Junction over the weekend.

During his escape, the suspect reportedly rammed police vehicles, drove over spike strips and attempted to run over officers before abandoning the vehicle and fleeing on foot into a nearby village.

He was subsequently located and arrested at the Lachish crossing, also known as Tarqumiyah, and is due to appear in court for a detention-extension hearing.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)