Israeli authorities have cracked down on an illegal cockfighting ring, arresting three people in the process. The illegal scheme forced the animal to fight, allowing patrons to gamble on the outcome.

The Police Rescued 150 Cockerels

The illegal cockfighting ring was located in an agricultural neighborhood near Ness Ziona, according to a recent report by the Israel Police. A report tipped off officials about animal abuse occurring at the site, prompting the intervention.

An investigation led by the Rehovot police in partnership with the Environmental Protection Ministry, the Agriculture and Raw Food Security Ministry, and the local veterinarian uncovered evidence of intentional animal cruelty and illegal gambling, prompting a raid on the site.

The eventual raid saw police officers arrest the property’s owner and two foreign nationals. In addition to that, authorities rescued some 150 cockerels from the property.

Photos of the location show the cockfighting ring surrounded by cages for the animals in what clearly looks like an agricultural building. Imagery also shows multiple chairs for gamblers to sit in.

This is not the first time Israeli authorities have busted illegal cockfighting rings. In 2018 and 2022, the police cracked down on two separate gambling venues in two separate locations. Both cases were associated to Thai nationals organizing cockfighting in Israel despite the prohibition.

Recent Study Linked Gaza War to a Rise of Problem Gambling in Israel

In other Israel-related news, recent research from the Israel Center for Addiction and Mental Health (ICAMH) at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem suggested that problem gambling has been on the rise ever since the Gaza hostilities intensified.

The research noted that men who have problems managing their emotions are particularly vulnerable to gambling problems. The study also suggested that those who put in more effort in trying to understand their emotions were more prone to use gambling as a means of comfort and regulation.