JERUSALEM (JTA) — Netanya Mayor Miriam Feirberg is in police custody on suspicion of bribery, fraud and breach of trust after being interrogated for several hours.
Feirberg, who has been mayor of the coastal city for nearly two decades, was questioned by the Lahav 443 investigations unit of the Israel Police on Wednesday and ordered held for 10 days by the Rishon LeZion Magistrate’s Court, according to the police.
She is one of several city officials detained or arrested in a suspected bribery scandal involving multimillion-dollar real estate deals in Netanya.
Two building contractors also have been arrested, and the mayor’s son, Tsafrir, was arrested Monday. Police and tax inspectors reportedly raided their homes and offices, and froze their bank accounts and other assets. Police raided the Netanya municipal offices earlier this week.
The municipality said in a statement that it “is cooperating and will fully cooperate with enforcement bodies, and municipal activities are continuing as usual.”
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
