Minister May Golan Appears for Police Investigation Over Bribery and Fraud Allegations
Translated & summarized from Mako by baba
Minister May Golan appeared for a police investigation at Lahav 433 on Wednesday, facing suspicions of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. The investigation, initiated by a Channel 12 report, also includes allegations of fraud, forgery, and obstruction of justice. Golan stated she would cooperate fully. A senior police official noted her appearance before the upcoming elections was advisable due to potential loss of parliamentary immunity.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Minister May Golan is under investigation for bribery, fraud, and breach of trust.
- The investigation stems from findings by a Channel 12 investigative report.
- Golan appeared at Lahav 433 offices for questioning on Wednesday.
- She faces additional charges including obstruction of justice and forgery.
- Police advised Golan to appear before elections to avoid losing immunity.
Minister for Social Equality and the Advancement of the Status of Women, May Golan, appeared on Wednesday morning at the Lahav 433 offices for an investigation stemming from findings by a Channel 12 "HaMivaker" investigation. Golan and other individuals involved in the affair are suspected of offenses including bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. She also faces allegations of receiving fraudulent benefits under aggravating circumstances, intentional forgery to obtain benefits, obstruction of justice, and hindering a police officer.
Golan, who presented herself for questioning months after being summoned, told investigators, "I will answer all the questions, I have nothing to hide." Negotiations for her appearance began last week. A senior Lahav 433 official told N12 that authorities would not pursue her, but she was aware it was advisable to appear before the elections. "If after the elections she is no longer a Knesset member and has no immunity, we will knock on her door," the official stated.
The investigation file has been compiled and transferred to the State Prosecutor's Office, which approved Golan's questioning. The Channel 12 investigation focused on funds allegedly received by Golan and her associates illegally, including forbidden wages during her work with a non-profit she established, or payments to associates for work that may not have been performed. The investigation, initially covert for several months, became public in September of last year with the approval of Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara. Dozens of suspects and witnesses have been questioned by Lahav 433 investigators as part of the case. A senior Lahav official indicated in June that there was sufficient evidence to file indictments against Golan and her associates.
