Israeli Tax Authority Arrests Man Suspected of Fake Invoices After Three-Week Hiding

Dudu Ohana, 52, from Rehovot, was arrested in a hotel room in Hadera last Thursday on suspicion of issuing false tax invoices and submitting fraudulent reports. Ohana had evaded investigation for weeks, hiding in a hotel suite far from his home, where he allegedly continued managing shell companies and involved intermediaries. The arrest followed a joint operation by the Beersheba Customs and VAT Investigations Unit and the Tax Authority's Targets Unit, with assistance from Hadera police.

Investigators tracked Ohana's location using technological means and monitored him for several days before detaining him. During a court hearing, Tax Authority investigator Naama Masika revealed that Ohana's son attempted to destroy evidence by burning documents and receipts on a backyard grill and possibly using a garden hose to wash away further proof. The son was briefly detained and released under restrictions.

The investigation began around June, initially focusing on suspected fake invoice deductions in one company, and has since expanded significantly. Several raids were conducted in April and July, and dozens of people have been questioned. Authorities seized computers, mobile phones, credit card terminals, and lawyers' stamps suspected of being used to forge documents. Ohana has remained silent during questioning.

Ohana's lawyer, Yossi Hamzani, argued for his release, citing ongoing divorce proceedings and the lengthy investigation, claiming the suspect's disappearance was not an attempt to flee. The court extended Ohana's detention by six days, citing the risk of evidence tampering and the seriousness of the offenses, which include obstruction of justice. Judge Eran Tzabari noted the suspect's deliberate evasion and possession of incriminating items at the hotel.

This case is part of a broader crackdown by the Beersheba Customs and VAT Investigations Unit on fake invoices in the construction sector, with recent indictments involving tens of millions of shekels. The investigation continues with numerous forensic and witness examinations planned.