Kfar Saba Mayor and Wife Suspected of Collusion in Corruption Probe

Investigators from the National Fraud Unit (יאח"ה) are preparing for a critical marathon of interrogations in the Kfar Saba corruption case. Police believe they have documents and evidence suggesting Mayor Rafi Saar was aware of and actively promoted business dealings his wife, Meital Saar, allegedly advanced with businessmen and contractors. This contradicts Saar's claim that his wife's business activities are independent and that he does not interfere or benefit from them. However, investigators reportedly believe decisions were made by the municipality that were linked to Meital Saar's alleged dealings.

Meital Saar has not remained entirely silent during questioning. While she avoids answering questions about receiving money, she reportedly denies her husband's involvement when confronted with suspicions about him. Investigators suggest this tactic aims to distance her husband from the alleged financial transactions, as she holds no official position and her status as the mayor's wife does not automatically make her a public official for bribery charges. Nevertheless, police believe they have sufficient evidence to link the alleged benefits she received to the mayor's actions.

Investigators suspect the couple may have coordinated their stories in advance of potential arrests. Evidence gathered reportedly indicates they anticipated an investigation and prepared accordingly. Despite this, their demeanor during a recent court hearing suggested they may not have fully grasped the gravity of the situation. One document under review is a purported loan agreement for NIS 2.5 million, though the funds were allegedly not transferred under that specific agreement. Police emphasize this is just one of many aspects being investigated, with suspicions reportedly strengthening as the probe progresses.

The investigation, which includes eight sub-cases, currently has no state's witness, but the National Fraud Unit believes the existing evidence is strong. Police are preparing to decide on the continued detention of the Saars. A judge noted the investigation is nearing the end of its detention phase. The police will decide whether to seek a third extension of their arrest or agree to significant restrictive conditions, including a ban from city hall, travel restrictions, and financial guarantees. Two businessmen involved, Eitan Sapir and Efraim Kahlon, are expected to be released to house arrest. The investigation itself is expected to continue even after the detention phase concludes.