The Israeli police have launched “Nigh Watch,” a program aimed at curbing youth violence. Police will be present at nightclubs and bars beginning on Thursday evening and stay until closing. Officers will be armed, some in uniform, and others undercover, and be on the alert for armed youths and to prevent illegal drug and alcohol consumption. Any detained youth will be required to remain at the police station until picked up by a parent or guardian. While the numbers countrywide in youth violence are rising, there are fewer violent crimes in 2006 compared to the previous year.