Kfar Saba Mayor and Wife Arrested in Corruption Probe; Luxury Goods Seized

Israeli police on October 12 revealed photographs of luxury items seized from the home of Kfar Saba Mayor Rafi Saar and his wife, who were arrested on suspicion of corruption. The confiscated items include high-end jewelry, prestigious watches, and designer handbags, found stored in boxes that had contained office supplies. Large sums of cash, concealed within the residence, were also seized. The arrests, which occurred on October 22, involve Mayor Rafi Saar, his wife, and 22 other individuals implicated in a public sector corruption investigation led by the Lahav 433 special police unit. Investigators suspect officials received substantial cash payments for manipulating tenders to benefit specific business interests. A police source described the situation as "the city being sold, nothing less."

While many municipal employees believe the mayor might escape serious consequences, investigators see it differently. A key focus of the probe is the alleged significant role played by Rafi Saar's wife, who, despite holding no official position, is described by police as a "dominant and key figure" in the case. Sources indicate that businessmen seeking to win tenders allegedly approached her, discussing "packages of mutual concessions," which are believed to be bribes and kickbacks. She reportedly received bundles of cash directly from these "clients."

Rafi Saar, first elected mayor in 2018 and beginning his second term in 2024, issued a statement to residents announcing his temporary suspension of duties due to the investigation. He pledged full cooperation with authorities and expressed hope to "present the full picture" proving his innocence, asking for patience until facts are clarified. He stated his deputy, Dani Harush, would temporarily assume his responsibilities to ensure the municipality's work continues uninterrupted. The investigation, which began secretly in May 2025, is examining allegations of large-scale bribery, fraud, breach of trust, money laundering, and tax offenses. Seventeen individuals were detained for further questioning, while seven were released under restrictive conditions, following searches at 30 locations.

Police suspect that tender manipulation and favoritism towards certain businesses may have been facilitated through a municipal economic company, rather than directly via the mayor's office, to obscure the illicit dealings. Investigators believe there was coordination between the Saars and the company's CEO, who allegedly knew in advance which bidder was set to win. In some cases, "extraneous" tender participants allegedly faced obstacles designed to force their withdrawal from bids covering diverse city projects, including school renovations, business openings, recreational zones, and infrastructure. The investigation also examines the couple's "hedonistic lifestyle," including alleged cash payments for overseas trips, jewelry, and clothing. Recently, the mayor's wife was questioned after undeclared NIS 20,000 in cash was found on her at Ben Gurion Airport. Furthermore, the probe is exploring alleged ties between the mayor, his wife, and criminal groups in the Sharon region, with intelligence suggesting criminal figures may have influenced municipal elections by pressuring the mayor's political rivals. Police are investigating the nature of these connections, with a source stating the investigation suggests "the city has been sold." The economic department of the State Prosecutor's Office is overseeing the investigation.