Ousted Netivei Ayalon Chairman Investigated for Fraud and Deception

Idan David, the recently ousted chairman of Netivei Ayalon, a government company responsible for major transportation projects, was investigated last Thursday by Lahav 433. The investigation centers on suspicions of fraud, breach of trust, forgery, and submitting false affidavits. The probe was initiated following an investigative report by Yossi Mizrahi on Channel 12, which highlighted discrepancies between the professional experience David presented during his appointment and his actual work history.

Specifically, the report alleged that David misrepresented the scale of operations at Magdallit, a company where he claimed to have served as deputy CEO. While he presented figures suggesting the company had revenues of approximately 800 million shekels and over 400 employees, the investigation found these figures to be significantly inflated. A certified public accountant whose signature appeared on a supporting document denied authorizing it, and a former CEO of Magdallit denied David's claim of serving as deputy CEO.

During his detention for questioning, David's home and office were searched, and digital media and documents were seized. He was later released under restrictive conditions, including a prohibition from contacting individuals involved in the case. The investigation is ongoing, focusing on whether the presented data and documents were falsified to meet the eligibility criteria for his appointment.

David had previously dismissed the allegations, stating that any claim of forgery was "extremely serious" and asserting that his management experience was sufficient for the role. He also noted that the committee for examining appointments had reviewed and approved his qualifications. David was appointed about a year ago by Transportation Minister Miri Regev and Minister in charge of the Government Companies Authority David Amsalem. However, sources suggest both ministers are now distancing themselves from him.

Last week, the committee for examining appointments, headed by retired Justice Shulamit Dotan, revoked David's approval for the chairmanship based on the new information. Subsequently, the Director of the Government Companies Authority, Roei Kahalon, announced the termination of David's directorship, citing incomplete, inaccurate, and untrue information provided in his application.