(IsraelNN.com) Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents have arrested and brought charges against 14 people who allegedly traded in stolen goods and sent profits to Arab groups in Judea, Samaria and Gaza. The FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force was involved in the investigation and arrests, but officials did not say if the money was funneled to terrorists.

The gang, led by Bassam Hamed, managed at least five convenience stores that sold contraband cigarettes and other merchandise. An attorney for several of those who were arrested maintained that the men sent money to help family members in Israel. "They're hardworking guys. They're family guys," said attorney Rob Lutfiyya.