PM Residence Caretaker Suspected of Using Official Credit Card for Private Purchases Worth Tens of Thousands

Israeli police are investigating suspicions that Effi Azulai, the caretaker of the Prime Minister's residence, along with another employee, used the residence's credit card for personal expenses totaling tens of thousands of shekels. The investigation, conducted by the Lahav 433 unit, centers on allegations that the two purchased food and various products for their private homes without authorization. At least two employees reportedly witnessed the misuse, with one stating that Azulai instructed him to keep the matter confidential.

About six weeks ago, one of the employees was summoned to provide testimony regarding the case. Another employee, who filed a lawsuit against the Prime Minister's Office, claims to have informed the office's deputy director, Sigalit Gabay, about the suspected misuse months earlier. This incident adds to previous controversies involving Azulai, who was convicted two years ago for unauthorized purchases at the residence and was investigated seven months ago for allegedly receiving benefits from a supplier working with the residence. Despite these issues, Azulai was reinstated as caretaker in a contractor role.

In response, Azulai denied any personal use of the residence's credit card, asserting that all purchases are closely supervised and transparent under the Prime Minister's Office accounting department. Both the police and the Prime Minister's Office declined to comment on the ongoing investigation.