Likud Member and Sewer Contractor Accused of Illegal Waste Dumping and Political Favoritism

Asher Milul, a prominent sewer contractor and member of the Likud central committee, is under scrutiny for allegedly using a hazardous and illegal method to dispose of sewage sludge. His company, Harel Yossi, which holds sewer maintenance contracts in multiple Israeli cities including Raanana, Petah Tikva, Ramat Gan, and Bnei Brak, reportedly pumps sewage but instead of transporting it to authorized treatment facilities, disposes of it in a rented industrial lot near Beit Dagan. There, the sewage is mixed with sand and burned to mask the smell before being spread in various urban and agricultural locations, posing significant environmental and public health risks.

Investigations by News 12 documented trucks dumping this toxic sludge in residential neighborhoods, near the Ayalon River, and in orchards, raising concerns about soil and groundwater contamination. Environmental expert Baruch Weber warned that the site’s proximity to groundwater and the presence of heavy metals and hydrocarbons far exceed legal limits, threatening local agriculture and residents’ health. Despite a lawsuit filed two years ago against Milul and local authorities, no effective enforcement has occurred.

Milul’s political connections within Likud are notable; his daughter’s wedding was attended by senior ministers and Knesset members, including Transportation Minister Miri Regev and Energy Minister Eli Cohen. Allegations also suggest that Milul benefits from tender conditions favoring his company, such as requirements for specific trucks and proximity to his office, which limit competition. Legal experts argue these criteria may be discriminatory and subject to judicial challenge.

Milul denies wrongdoing, claiming his company complies with all regulations and that the footage shows non-sewage water. The Ministry of Environmental Protection states it has no record of complaints, while water corporations involved affirm the tenders were conducted transparently. However, a recording leaked in May reveals Milul threatening a business rival, invoking connections to far-right politician Itamar Ben-Gvir, who denies any association.

The ongoing case highlights concerns about regulatory oversight, environmental harm, and the influence of political ties in public contracting. Activists and legal representatives call for stricter enforcement and transparency to prevent further pollution and corruption.