Kfar Saba mayor arrested alongside wife, 15 others in major corruption investigation
The wife of the local municipality head is suspected of playing a significant role in the bribery scheme, particularly in coordinating with businesspeople.
Rafi Sa ar, mayor of Kfar Saba, and his wife are among 19 individuals arrested in a major corruption probe. This year-long investigation by the National Fraud Investigations Unit and Lahav 433 led to the arrest of these 19, along with seven more who were questioned. The suspects include the economic development company's director-general and several top businesspeople.
Allegations include bribery, fraud, and misconduct in awarding public contracts. Police suspect Sa ar's wife played a significant role in the scheme, which allegedly involved manipulating public tenders for benefits and bribes, primarily in cash. The sums awarded were significant, covering sectors like cleaning and construction.
The investigation also implicates known criminal figures from central Israel. Police have detained 24 suspects so far in connection with the case. They suspect the involvement of these individuals in securing contracts and potential acts of violence. Undercover investigators from Lahav 433 used extensive resources to build their case.
On Monday, police conducted raids on offices, businesses, and private homes of the suspects, seizing money and property. All suspects are now in Lahav 433 headquarters for questioning. Depending on the investigation's developments, police may extend the suspects' detention at the Rishon Lezion Magistrate's Court. The investigation is being conducted with the Economic Department of the State Attorney's Office.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
