Israeli Contractor Dudi Apple Suspected of Concealing Real Estate Assets Worth Tens of Millions with Aid from Michael Kleiner and Dayan Family

Dudi Apple, a bankrupt contractor and former Likud Knesset member Michael Kleiner, along with siblings Itzik and Yaffa Dayan, were detained for questioning this week by the National Economic Crime Unit (BIALAK) at Lahav 433. They are suspected of concealing real estate rights and smuggling assets worth tens of millions of shekels. The four suspects were released under restrictive conditions, and another involved party abroad is expected to be questioned. The allegations include bankruptcy offenses, money laundering, tax violations, and fraud. Following the suspects' detention, authorities seized significant property for potential confiscation.

The investigation centers on Apple's bankruptcy case dating back to the 1980s and 1990s. Apple, once a prominent contractor closely linked to former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and Shas leader Aryeh Deri, has a history of criminal charges including bribery convictions. Since 2012, Apple has been in bankruptcy proceedings. Authorities suspect that during this period, he concealed ownership of various real estate assets valued at tens of millions of shekels and illicitly transferred control of these properties.

Police and bankruptcy officials say the suspects acted systematically to hide assets from authorities and profit illegally. Kleiner, a lawyer and former Likud official, allegedly assisted Apple in contracts and transactions. The Dayan siblings are suspected of collaborating with Apple in these activities. Apple reportedly presented himself as asset-free to obtain debt discharge, while continuing to benefit from hidden properties without reporting income to tax authorities.

Apple offered a debt settlement of 87 million shekels to the state, claiming insolvency, but the Tel Aviv District Court rejected the proposal in October 2025, citing lack of transparency about his financial means. Kleiner’s involvement is considered limited and motivated by friendship, while the Dayan siblings are seen as active collaborators.

Apple denied the allegations, calling them attempts to extort money and silence him. His lawyer stated the case is old and already investigated years ago. The Dayan siblings’ lawyers said their clients are law-abiding businessmen with no evidence of wrongdoing. Kleiner also denied the accusations. The investigation is ongoing with cooperation between police and the Ministry of Justice’s bankruptcy enforcement unit.