Kfar Saba Mayor, Wife Arrested in Corruption Probe

The Mayor of Kfar Saba, Rafi Saar, and his wife were brought before a court on Monday for a hearing regarding the extension of their arrest. They were detained as part of a years-long corruption investigation within the municipal government, codenamed "On the Way to the Village." The couple is suspected of receiving cash payments from businessmen, including individuals with criminal ties, in exchange for manipulating tenders.

In total, 17 suspects, including businessmen and local criminals, were arrested, with seven others detained. The investigation, which lasted over a year in its covert phase, was conducted by the National Fraud Unit of Lahav 433, under the command of Superintendent Eli Makmel, and overseen by the Economic Department of the State Prosecutor's Office. Searches were conducted at 30 locations as the investigation transitioned to public.

Authorities suspect that Saar and his wife received cash packages from businessmen and, in return, ensured these individuals won tenders in real estate, rehabilitation, renovation, and transportation sectors. Investigators believe the mayor's wife was the central figure through whom businessmen and criminal elements operated, facilitating wins for those who paid them. When obstacles arose for a favored bidder, Saar allegedly intervened to transfer the tender to the municipal economic company, whose CEO is suspected of knowing the intended winner and hindering competitors.

Police stated that initial, unverified information surfaced years ago, but the covert investigation began over a year ago following intelligence accumulation. During the probe, intelligence and technological means were employed. Police sources claim evidence was gathered of the mayor's wife receiving cash packages, with significant sums found during searches in pouches, wardrobes, and vehicles. The couple is also suspected of maintaining a lavish lifestyle, including luxury vacations and purchases of expensive watches, clothing, and vehicles. Furthermore, some businessmen allegedly acted as vote brokers, aiding the mayor's election, while criminal elements were reportedly sent by the couple to intimidate rival tender bidders.