Troops arrested for shutting off surveillance gear
Female field observers, to be charged with putting national security at risk, say they were under too much pressure
Some of the details in the case are under a gag order, but according to a statement released by the Northern Command military prosecution charges will be pressed against the four soldiers for overstepping authority to the point of putting national security at risk, failing to follow orders and destroying property.
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The military prosecution also considered charging the suspects with assisting the enemy, but chances that such a severe accusation would make it into the indictment are slim.
Over the last few months, the soldiers switched off the systems that they were in charge of on several occasions. These surveillance systems collect information of high importance about what goes on across the border. An investigation into the suspects' conduct was launched after a commander complained.
Three of the field intelligence observers are currently in military jail, while the fourth is under open arrest at her base.
It was not immediately clear whether the soldiers admitted guilt and what were the motives behind their actions. However, they told their commanders that they worked under very difficult conditions and couldn’t bear the pressure.
A recent inquiry into IDF observation posts showed that the soldiers' claims were justified, and the army has begun to implement the reforms that were recommended based on the findings.
Army elements noted that the severe allegation must be thoroughly investigated, and if the soldiers are found to be guilty of misconduct they should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
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