Israeli security reports have pointed to a growing threat from an organised group of minors operating in Tel Aviv, raising concerns about crime and policing.
According to police, the group—reportedly calling itself “SSQ”—includes around 100 boys and girls aged between 11 and 16. Authorities said many members are from migrant backgrounds, including families originating from Eritrea.
Police said the group’s activities have escalated beyond theft to include assaults in public spaces and attempts to extort money from businesses and service providers.
Officials expressed concern about alleged links between the youths and larger criminal networks, saying minors may be recruited to carry out tasks on behalf of organised groups, partly due to their age and lower likelihood of prosecution.
During raids on apartments in southern Tel Aviv, police said they seized weapons including pistols, knives and axes, along with quantities of narcotics.
Authorities said the findings have raised concerns that the group may have been preparing to carry out more serious criminal activities, underscoring broader worries about youth crime and security challenges in the area.
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