Tax Inspectors Reportedly Seen in Bnei Brak Ahead of Sukkot, Tax Authority Denies Activity

Tax inspectors were reportedly spotted near stalls selling the Four Species in Bnei Brak's Vizhnitz neighborhood on Tuesday, ahead of the Sukkot holiday. The inspectors were seen near the 'Beit Hillel' study hall, where stalls selling the Four Species were operating. Reports indicated that some stalls were briefly closed during the inspectors' presence before reopening.

However, the Israel Tax Authority has denied that any inspection activity took place in Bnei Brak on that day. In response to a query from 'Kikar HaShabbat', the authority stated, "We are not aware of any inspection activity in Bnei Brak that took place today." Despite this denial, the Tax Authority confirmed that it conducts inspection and enforcement activities in markets and relevant businesses across the country leading up to Sukkot.

The reported activity comes amid significant trade in the Four Species, which can generate tens of millions of shekels in a few days, often involving cash transactions and temporary stalls. This situation highlights the potential for tax evasion.

This incident follows a previous crisis in July between the Tax Authority and the Bnei Brak municipality, after tax inspectors were attacked in the Kiryat Vizhnitz neighborhood. Following that event, Tax Authority director Shai Aharonovich demanded a public condemnation from the municipality and stated that his inspectors would not operate in the city until it was issued. The Tax Authority reiterated its standard practice of conducting enforcement in seasonal markets nationwide, especially during periods of intense commerce like the High Holidays.