RAMALLAH — The Palestinian Authority has launched an anti-crime offensive in the West Bank.   

"We are trying to use the security forces to benefit the people," an official said.

In the Hebron district of the southern West Bank, PA security forces arrested 70 suspects. Officials said PA police worked with the Preventive Security Apparatus and General Intelligence to identify and track suspected drug traffickers and theft rings.

On April 6, police said eight people were arrested in the northern Hebron district. The statement said the suspects were charged with theft and drug possession, with one sentenced to seven months in prison. Police said 15 vehicles were seized and their owners were detained.

Officials said police and security agencies were also operating in the Tulkarm region. They said the anti-crime campaign also included enforcement of a new ban on purchasing products made in Jewish communities in the West Bank.

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