Top Negev Official Arrested in Major Corruption Probe

A significant corruption investigation has led to the arrest of a serving Negev regional council head, along with several family members and senior officials within the council. Seven individuals were detained, and six others were questioned as part of a probe into allegations of bribery, bid rigging, fraud, and fictitious employment.

Authorities suspect that funds were fraudulently diverted from the council and channeled into the private accounts of those involved. The investigation, which began covertly several months ago, transitioned to its public phase on Monday with a large-scale operation involving numerous officers.

Police conducted searches at the council's offices as part of evidence gathering. The operation involved officers from the National Bureau for Economic Crime, the Southern District Police, and special units, with cooperation from the Tax Authority and the Israel Money Laundering and Terror Financing Prohibition Authority.

The suspects are expected to be brought before the Rishon LeZion Magistrate's Court later today, where police will seek to extend their detention. The police stated this operation is part of ongoing efforts against crime and criminals in the Negev's Bedouin sector, who allegedly attempt to use official authorities as bases for criminal activities.