Attempt to fire engineer two years before mayor's arrest: 'Tried to curtail her'

Kfar Saba Mayor Rafi Sa'ar and his wife Meital were arrested on suspicion of bid-rigging in exchange for bribes. The investigation reveals a link to Sa'ar's failed attempt two years ago to fire the city engineer, a move seen as an effort to hollow out the engineering department. 17 other suspects were arrested.

Kfar Saba Mayor Rafi Sa'ar and his wife Meital were arrested on suspicion of bid-rigging in exchange for bribes, in a case involving 17 additional suspects. The investigation, led by Lahav 433, allegedly reveals a modus operandi where businessmen approached the mayor's wife, who acted to secure their wins in municipal tenders. City sources link the arrests to Sa'ar's failed attempt two years ago to fire city engineer Aliza Zeidler-Granot. According to them, after the attempt failed, Sa'ar began hollowing out the engineering department and transferring projects to the municipal economic company. The suspicions cover various areas: renovation of educational institutions, cleaning services, placement of food carts, and more. The court extended the couple's remand by eight days. Opposition council members claim the improper conduct was known and question where the gatekeepers were.