Reporting Steps
Ethiopian Israelis report a higher incidence of stops, searches, and even police violence. Knowing your legal rights is a form of self-defence.
Rights during a stop (temporary detention) The Code of Criminal Procedure (1982) establishes: a police officer may detain a person for identity checks only if there is reasonable suspicion of an offence. There is no legal obligation to accompany an officer who has not presented a warrant. Ask: "Am I under arrest? Am I free to go?" — the officer must answer directly.
Rights during a body search A body search requires explicit consent, a judicial warrant, or concrete reasonable suspicion. If an officer asks to search you — ask what authority they are relying on. Do not physically resist — but say clearly: "I do not consent to this search." Document it.
Rights on arrest On arrest: (1) right to silence — the right not to incriminate yourself; (2) right to a lawyer before interrogation; (3) right to notify a family member within a few hours; (4) right to interpretation — if you do not speak Hebrew, the police must provide an interpreter. Arrest Law (1996), section 32.
How to complain — MAHASH The Police Internal Investigations Department (MAHASH) investigates complaints against officers. You can file a complaint: (1) directly with MAHASH; (2) at a police station (the officer must record the complaint); (3) through the Ministry of Justice public-enquiries portal. Recommended within 6 months of the incident. Keep everything in writing.
Legal accompaniment Tebeka offers free advice in cases of police violence and ethnic-based discrimination. Contact them early — before the case is closed.
Last reviewed: 2026-05-12
