MK Saada Reveals New Details in Nir Hefetz Investigation, Calls for Independent Police Investigations Unit
MK Moshe Saada disclosed in an interview with Channel 7 new information regarding the investigation tactics used against Nir Hefetz, a key figure in the Netanyahu trial. Saada revealed that the interrogation exercise conducted on Hefetz was reviewed by prosecutor Yehudit Tirosh, who was allegedly involved in the case, raising concerns about conflicts of interest. Saada criticized the previous structure where the Police Investigations Department (Mahash) was under the Attorney General's office, arguing it hindered independent investigations into senior law enforcement officials.
Saada recounted his time as deputy head of Mahash, describing how senior police officer Tzachi Habkin wanted to provide detailed testimony about the interrogation exercise under conditions of confidentiality to protect his career. However, Mahash head at the time, Keren Bar Menachem, refused to accept the testimony under anonymity, which Saada claims was an unusual and obstructive decision. Saada and Dovi Shratzer subsequently filed a complaint against Bar Menachem with the public complaints commissioner, who found unresolved issues but did not pursue a thorough investigation.
Habkin later testified in court, implicating prosecutor Yehudit Tirosh in the interrogation tactics against Hefetz. Saada also referenced former Deputy Attorney General Raz Nizri’s shock at the interrogation methods during a meeting, which did not halt the process. Saada revealed that despite concerns, the investigation into the interrogation exercise was assigned to Tirosh herself, who cleared the actions as proper, exemplifying systemic flaws.
Saada is now demanding a comprehensive investigation into the entire affair, including the alleged coercion and Habkin’s case. He links these issues to the recent legislative reform that separated Mahash from the Attorney General’s office, enabling Mahash to conduct independent investigations, summon witnesses, and potentially file indictments without prior approval from the Attorney General. Saada noted the reform faced significant opposition and that candidates for the new Mahash head have already applied.
He attributed harsh criticism against him, including from media figures like Amnon Abramovich, to fears of losing the current system’s protections. Saada concluded that these critics aim to prevent the collapse of the existing "fortress" protecting senior officials, underscoring the importance of the new independent investigative framework.
