"Human life is not a free-for-all": Jet ski hits surfer, residents claim police don't enforce

A jet ski struck a young surfer at Jisr az-Zarqa beach, just dozens of meters from shore. The young man was taken to Hillel Yaffe Medical Center in mild condition. Residents say this is another accident in a reality of no enforcement, with dozens of jet skis operating unsupervised, violating navigation laws. They demand a permanent police presence and increased enforcement.

Yesterday (Saturday), a serious accident occurred at the fishing village beach in Jisr az-Zarqa, when a jet ski hit a young surfer from the village just dozens of meters from the shore. The young man was taken to Hillel Yaffe Medical Center and his condition is defined as mild, but his relatives say the incident could have ended in a heavy disaster. In the village, they claim the accident is not an exceptional case but a result of a dangerous and ongoing reality, where there is no law and no judge on the beach. A veteran fisherman told Walla that dozens of jet skis and watercraft leave the marina every week and operate without adequate supervision and enforcement, violating navigation and safety laws. Many sail within the 300-meter zone forbidden for fast navigation, and some approach within dozens of meters of bathers. Witnesses report dangerous speeds, wild entries and exits from the marina, irresponsible behavior, and even alcohol consumption among some operators. Also observed are offenses of driving on the beach and illegal parking. According to witnesses, the jet ski operator did not provide immediate assistance to the victim and left the scene after giving a version that does not match the testimonies. Sami al-Ali, secretary of the fishermen's committee, asked how the police did not immediately arrive for comprehensive enforcement and did not take testimonies. Muhammad Amash, a social activist, said the situation endangers human life every day. Residents demand a permanent police presence, increased enforcement, and supervision over the launching of watercraft. The police have not yet responded.