Some 15 teenagers were detained for questioning in Netanya on suspicion of stealing fire extinguishers from residential buildings and emptying their contents in public areas across the city, in incidents believed to be linked to a social media challenge circulating on platforms including TikTok, police said.
Three of the teenagers, aged 14 and 15, were caught in the act and fined NIS 730 each.
The investigation was launched following reports of fire extinguishers being stolen from residential buildings and their contents being discharged in public parks, parking lots, and on roads.
Since the weekend, investigators from the youth division at the Netanya Police Station have been working alongside municipal inspectors to identify those involved.
After apprehending the three minors, investigators identified more than 10 additional teenagers suspected of similar acts. They were also detained for questioning and arrived at the police station with their parents, who were informed of the potential criminal consequences and dangers associated with their actions.
Police warn of dangers posed by missing firefighting equipment
Behind what is suspected to have become an online challenge, residential buildings are being left without firefighting equipment intended to provide an immediate response in the event of a fire.
Police warned that stealing and emptying fire extinguishers could undermine efforts to control fires and lead to serious injuries, loss of life, and property damage. Police have also questioned minors in other investigations involving suspected criminal offenses.
Police urged parents to talk with their children about the dangers of taking part in such challenges.
Building management committees were advised to secure firefighting equipment against theft while keeping it accessible for immediate use in an emergency.