PA uncovers Hamas arms cache in Qalqilya
Eight explosive devices found in deserted home near security barrier; some equipment labeled ' Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades'
The Palestinian Authority uncovered a weapons cache in a deserted home in the West Bank city of Qalqilya, a Palestinian security official said Thursday. The Authority estimates that the explosives were stored by Hamas militants.
Another weapons cache was discovered in the West Bank earlier last week. PA officials believe it also belonged to elements linked to Hamas. The Islamist group has denied any link to either arms cache.
According to the official, the house, in which at least eight explosive devices were found, is located 500 meters (about 1,640 feet) from the West Bank security barrier constructed by Israel.
Some of the equipment inside was labeled "Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades" - Hamas' armed wing.
Ynet has learned that at least three Qalqilya residents were detained in connection with the weapons cache.
Subversive Palestinian groups have been able to store arms despite the PA security forces' efforts.
Last week eight Hamas men were arrested for their alleged involvement in the storage of the weapons that were discovered earlier in the week. Hamas said the PA has detained hundreds of its men throughout the West Bank over the past few months.
Hamas and Fatah are expected to resume their reconciliation negotiations in Cairo next week.
