The skunk bomb is a non-lethal weapon used to disperse crowds. Photo: IDF Spokesperson

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IDF forces have recently introduced the use of the Skunk riot dispersal method. The Skunk scatters bad odor, which causes rioters to flee from crowded areas. This peculiar violent-free method was introduced two years ago, as only one part of a series of means to disband riots. The idea of creating new means to disband riots comes from the need to use non-violent and creative methods to break up crowds.

The Skunk is an effective method because it is not as severe as other methods used throughout the world. It causes nausea and vomiting, and is activated by the spraying of a hose installed in a truck. The Israel Police initiated the use of the Skunk according to directions from IDF forces. The device contains natural and organic ingredients that evaporate within several hours and was approved by the Ministry of the Environment and the Chief Medical Officer. 

In the past two years, the IDF has introduced various non-lethal weapons for means of dispersing crowds such as the Scream, which produces high decibel sounds, the Taser gun which sends electrical shocks to immobilize people and the Malkush, which spreads 60 smoke bombs to over a 100 meter range.

As a result of soldiers often dealing with rioters, the GOC Army Headquarters decided to establish a department in the Central Command Lachish training base. Battalion soldiers in compulsory service and in reserve duty will learn in this training base how to properly deal with riots. The department will officially begin its training on August 1st.

“Non-lethal weapons are becoming one of the most important means, as a result of constantly dealing with the civilian population near our battle fields. We are trying to prevent any harm to our civilian population,” explains Major Guy Shtulz, Head of the Field Security Department and Head of the Paratroopers Headquarters. He adds that there is complete cooperation between the Israeli GOC Army Headquarters, Israel Police, Israeli Prison Service and Israeli Border Police. They are continuously holding discussions concerning new possible means of riot dispersal methods.