Israel Police Investigate Chairman of Ayalon Highways Over Resume Inflating Claims

Israel Police have opened an inquiry into Idan David, the chairman of Ayalon Highways, following allegations that he inflated his resume to secure the position. The investigation was initiated after the Government Companies Authority (GCA) filed a complaint with the police regarding suspicions of forgery and other offenses.

Police clarified that the current process is a "preliminary examination" to determine if any offenses were committed, not a full criminal investigation at this stage. The GCA's complaint stemmed from a Channel 12 report that suggested David systematically exaggerated his qualifications and experience to meet the eligibility criteria for the chairman role, creating a false impression of senior management expertise.

Following the report, the GCA demanded that David respond by September 22 to the claims concerning the veracity of his professional experience. Roee Kahlon, the GCA's director, sent David a letter stating, "There is concern that you provided inaccurate details to the committee and the Authority, upon which the committee relied when approving your appointment." Kahlon also requested that all information submitted by David be accompanied by a sworn affidavit of its accuracy, countersigned by a lawyer.

David was appointed to his position in July of the previous year. He was reportedly the candidate of Minister David Amsalem, who oversees government companies, for a directorship at Ayalon Highways. Prior to this role, David served as the CEO of the Ashkelon Municipality for three years, resigning a few months before the last local elections. Ayalon Highways is responsible for approximately NIS 3 billion annually, overseeing infrastructure development in metropolitan areas, highway construction, development programs in the Arab community, and innovation in transportation projects.