Head of a local authority in central Israel and his wife arrested in bribery case

Officers from the National Fraud Investigation Unit (YAHBAL) of Lahav 433 arrested 17 suspects this morning in a widespread public corruption case, including the head of a major local authority in central Israel, his wife, and the CEO of an economic company. According to the suspicion, in exchange for cash bribes, the accused promoted lucrative tender wins for the bribe-givers, involving known criminal elements.

Officers from the National Fraud Investigation Unit (YAHBAL) of Lahav 433 arrested 17 suspects this morning (Monday) in a widespread public corruption case, including the head of a major local authority in central Israel, his wife, and the CEO of an economic company (EC). The investigation, conducted in secret for over a year, focused on suspicions of serious offenses including bribery, fraud and breach of trust, money laundering, and tax offenses. According to the suspicion, in exchange for cash bribes, the head of the authority and the CEO of the EC, with unusual involvement of the authority head's wife, acted to benefit the bribe-givers and secure their wins in lucrative tenders in various fields within the local authority. The investigation also revealed that known criminal elements from central Israel were directly or indirectly involved over time in the bribery mechanism and the commission of violent offenses. During the transition to an overt investigation, searches were conducted in offices and businesses, and funds and property were seized. Seven additional suspects were detained for questioning. The investigation is accompanied by the Economic Department of the State Attorney's Office. All suspects were transferred for questioning, after which the unit is expected to request an extension of their detention at the Rishon LeZion Magistrate's Court.