Israeli police arrest top-league footballer over suspected match-fixing and illegal betting

Israeli police arrested a footballer from a top division club on Sunday morning, suspecting him of systematic illegal betting and match manipulation. The arrest was carried out as part of a wider investigation into a gang from Migdal HaEmek, led by the Northern branch of Lahav 433.

According to police, investigators from the Sports Betting Unit of the Israel Police's Lahav 433 also suspect the player of large-scale illegal gambling, violations of the Anti-Money Laundering Law, and tax offences committed together with others. The player is described as an active footballer in a top-tier team.

The arrest follows detentions made last week in the same case, which is being handled by Lahav 433's bribery and sports betting unit in full cooperation with the Israeli Football Association. Investigators say that, based on suspicion, the player placed illegal bets in a systematic way that was inconsistent with his role as an active professional.

Police said additional suspects and participants are expected to be questioned as the investigation continues.