Kfar Saba Mayor Denies Bribery, Says Wife May Have Taken Money in His Name
Translated & summarized from N12 by baba
Kfar Saba Mayor Rafi Saar denied taking bribes during an eight-day extension of his arrest and that of his wife, stating he was unaware if she received money in his name. Investigators claim to have evidence of at least seven bribery incidents, some recorded in real-time, allegedly involving cash for municipal tenders. His wife initially denied involvement but later invoked her right to silence. The probe is also looking into threats and criminal elements.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Kfar Saba Mayor Rafi Saar denied taking bribes, stating he didn't know if his wife received money in his name.
- Investigators claim to have evidence of at least seven bribery incidents, some recorded in real-time.
- The arrests of Mayor Rafi Saar and his wife were extended for eight days.
- The mayor's wife initially denied involvement but later invoked her right to silence.
- The investigation focuses on alleged cash payments for municipal tenders.
- Investigators are seeking to recruit three potential state witnesses in the case.
Kfar Saba Mayor Rafi Saar, whose arrest and that of his wife were extended for eight days, denied taking bribes during his interrogation. He stated he was unaware if his wife had received money on his behalf or for any actions related to his role. However, a senior source involved in the investigation reported that investigators possess evidence of at least seven bribery incidents, some of which were recorded in real-time. Investigators are also working to recruit three potential suspects as state witnesses.
Saar told investigators he answered all their questions and maintained that he did not receive any money for any action in his capacity as mayor. He specifically stated, "I also don't know if my wife received money in my name or in the name of any action of mine. I did not take any bribe." This stance distances him from any financial dealings, while not ruling out his wife's involvement without his knowledge.
His wife, who was arrested at their home in front of their children, initially stated, "I don't know what you want from me, I have nothing to do with it." Subsequently, likely on legal advice, she invoked her right to remain silent during questioning.
The investigation, led by the National Fraud Investigations Unit of Lahav 433, has reportedly gathered significant evidence. A senior source indicated confidence in the case, stating, "We are very strong in this affair, backed by a lot of evidence." The source elaborated that there are at least seven confirmed cases of "classic bribery - giving and receiving cash," with some incidents captured on video and audio recordings.
The investigation, which was covert for over a year, became public recently. The suspicion centers on cash payments made in exchange for advancing municipal tenders, particularly in urban renewal, transportation, lighting, and cleaning sectors. The mayor's wife is suspected of receiving cash envelopes. The investigation is also examining potential involvement of criminal elements and alleged threats against tender participants to withdraw their bids.
