Israeli security forces have launched a massive manhunt for six convicted terrorists who escaped from a high-security prison. Authorities said the prisoners escaped Monday morning by tunneling their way through the facility's drainage system.
The prisoners had escaped from Gilboa Prison, which is located northwest of Beit She'an and near the Sea of Galilee. Police forces have reportedly now started to use drones and helicopters to scour the surrounding area. Israel also deployed its military to help search for the prisoners.
Among those that escaped from the prison was the notorious commander in Fatah's Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade terror group, Zakaria Zubeidi. He was in prison while awaited trial for more than 24 charges, including attempted murder. The other five that escaped were in jail for crimes connected to deadly terrorist attacks in Israel. Authorities said all six were considered highly dangerous individuals.
Israel Police said there will be large numbers of troops within the cities of Beit She'an and Afula as well as other towns. Officials said the public doesn't have to worry but they should still be vigilant.
"There is no reason to change your routines, but there will be large numbers of troops within the cities of Afula and Beit She'an and in other towns. I do request additional awareness of anything suspicious," police chief, Shimon Ben Shabo, said.
Defense Minister Benny Gantz reportedly ordered the deployment of troops to border crossings and other areas where the prisoners could escape. Gantz's office said they will do "whatever actions" are necessary to recapture the terrorists.
Gilboa Prison officials said the men had dug a hole inside their cell, which was only big enough to fit one man. The hole was reportedly dug under the sink of their cell's bathroom. Officials have yet to determine how the men had dug through concrete, which was reinforced with metal rebar.
Officials said they don't even allow prisoners to possess metal spoons inside their cells, which means that the escaped prisoners could have illegally smuggled tools. The men were reportedly able to reach an existing gap under the facility and used it to move through a tunnel. The men escaped into a road on the southern side of the prison. Investigators speculated that the men may have had outside help, and possibly a cellphone with them to coordinate their escape.
