Israeli Police Complete Investigation Into 'Haderech' Case Involving MK Haim Biton

The National Fraud Investigations Unit of Lahav 433 has concluded its probe into the 'Haderech' newspaper case, which involved suspicions of illegal use of public funds allocated to the Maayan Hachinuch Hatorani educational network. Among those investigated were Member of Knesset Haim Biton, who previously served as CEO of the network, Moshe Avitan, the network's procurement manager, and other officials connected to the 'Haderech' newspaper. The investigation began covertly and later became public.

Authorities suspect that Ministry of Education budgets intended for the network's routine operations were allegedly used without proper authorization to finance a children's supplement distributed through the privately owned 'Haderech' newspaper, which is affiliated with the Shas political party. The inquiry examined allegations including fraud, breach of trust, receiving property by deception, theft or attempted theft, false corporate documentation, and violations of money laundering laws.

After completing all investigative actions and receiving approval from Lahav 433 chief Commissioner Meni Benyamin and the head of the Investigations and Intelligence Division Commissioner Boaz Balat, the case file was transferred to the Tax and Economic Prosecution for review and decision on further legal steps.