Israeli Police Complete Investigation into Shas-Linked 'HaDerech' Newspaper Funding Case

The National Fraud Investigation Unit (Yahalah) of Lahav 433 has concluded its probe into allegations of improper use of public funds involving the newspaper 'HaDerech,' which is privately owned and associated with the Shas party. The investigation focused on suspicions that budgets allocated by the Ministry of Education to the Maayan Torah Education Network were used without authorization to produce a children's supplement distributed through 'HaDerech.'

Among those investigated were Knesset member Haim Biton, who previously served as CEO of the Maayan Torah Education Network, Moshe Avitan, the network's procurement manager, and other officials connected to the newspaper. The inquiry began covertly and became public on March 18, 2025. The suspected offenses included fraud, breach of trust, receiving property by deception, theft or attempted theft, false corporate documentation, and violations of anti-money laundering laws.

Following the completion of all investigative actions and approval of the case summary by Lahav 433's chief Meni Benyamin and the head of investigations and intelligence Boaz Balat, the case file was transferred to the Economic and Tax Prosecution for review and decision on further legal steps.