Israeli police arrested 21 suspects this morning in a sweeping fraud investigation targeting contractors and career soldiers accused of bilking the IDF out of millions of shekels during operations in Gaza.
The arrests followed a months-long covert investigation by Lahav 433’s Southern District, the Military Police Criminal Investigation Division, and the Tax Authority’s VAT investigations unit in Beersheba. Authorities suspect the scheme involved obtaining money by fraud, money laundering, bribery, and other offenses.
1+The alleged fraud began after October 7, 2023, when the IDF launched its ground campaign in Gaza following the start of the Gaza War. As fighting intensified, the military turned to civilian contractors to supply heavy equipment for ongoing operations.
Investigators suspect contractors and IDF personnel conspired to defraud the military through false billing for equipment and services.
In a coordinated nationwide operation this morning, forces from Lahav 433 and the Military Police arrested 21 suspects—both civilians and active-duty soldiers—as the investigation moved into its public phase.
1+All detainees are being questioned at Lahav 433 headquarters. Later today, they will be brought before the Beersheba Magistrate’s Court and the military court in Beit Lid for remand hearings.
The Israel Police, Military Police Criminal Investigation Division, and Tax Authority said they will pursue the investigation until the full truth is uncovered and justice is served.