Yossi Asraf, head of the Givat Ze'ev local council, was detained this week for questioning on suspicion of public corruption offenses, after a covert investigation by Lahav 433's National Fraud Investigation Unit. The case was initially opened secretly based on information received by investigators, and has since moved into an open phase.
Police said the investigation is still at an early stage and that more steps are expected. As part of the open investigation, Asraf was questioned, searches were carried out in homes and at the Givat Ze'ev council, and additional senior municipal officials were summoned for questioning.
At the same time, investigators and enforcement agencies conducted various operations at several sites within the council's jurisdiction. The agencies involved in the probe include the Civil Administration, the Israel Tax Authority, Israel Electric Corporation, the Civil Prosecution, and the Enforcement of Land Use Authority.
The report stressed that Asraf has not been charged or convicted, and that he remains presumed innocent.