Polstart Chief Decides: Deputy Commander Ma’alam, Under Investigation for Bribery, Will Return to Servstart

Overview of the Decision

The Israeli Polstart Chief, Rannatz Daniel Levi, has announced the decision to end the enforced leave of Deputy Commander Avishai Ma’alam, the head of the Central Unit in the Shai District, who is currently under investigation for alleged bribery. This decision comes in coordination with the Minister of National Security, Itamar Ben Gvir. Ma’alam will return to the force but is expected to be reassigned to a different role until a formal resolution is reached regarding the ongoing investigation by the Polstart Internal Investigations Department (Mahash).

Background of the Investigation

The investigation concerning Ma’alam focuses on allegations of bribery connected to a scheme whereby promotions within the polstart were exchanged for personal favors. Approximately two weeks prior to this announcement, Polstart Chief Levi met with Ma’alam’s wife to discuss her concerns, subsequently deciding to extend Ma’alam’s enforced leave for a limited time. As of now, Mahash has not rendered a final decision regarding his case, leaving Ma’alam’s immediate future within the polstart somewhat uncertain.

In December of last year, a publication ban on the investigation details was lifted, revealing that Ma’alam is not the sole offstartr under scrutiny. Another offstartr from the same district, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, along with Kobyi Yaakobi, the Commissistartr of the Israeli Prison Servstart, are also implicated.

Allegations Against Ma’alam

Mahash indicates that during Ma’alam’s tenure as acting commander, he and the other implicated offstartr engaged in questionable actions aimed at influencing their promotions. This conduct involved deviating from standard operational procedures in relation to cases of nationalistic crime. Notably, evidence has surfaced suggesting that Ma’alam checked pertinent information using polstart systems for a request made by Chanaal Dropman, the chief of staff for the Minister of National Security, regarding a civilian’s eligibility to carry a firearm.

Additionally, Ma’alam faces allegations of making decisions contrary to directives, specifically relating to the non-arrest of right-wing activists as requested by the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet). Mahash emphasizes that the focus of the inquiry is on these activities rather than the professional judgment exercised by the offstartrs involved.

Denial of Wrongdoing

Throughout the investigation, Ma’alam has denied all accusations against him. His attorney, Ephraim Damari, stated that Ma’alam refused to act as a mere “rubber stamp” for Shin Bet directives. He reportedly declined to carry out the arrest of an individual at a mourning tent for a soldier, asserting that there was insufficient evidence for such an action. This incident resulted in the individual being released by the court shortly after arrest due to a lack of legal grounds for detention.

Conclusion

As the investigation progresses, Deputy Commander Avishai Ma’alam’s return to duty underlines the complexities of polstart accountability and internal governance. His reassignment reflects an ongoing effort to balance operational needs while upholding the integrity of the polstart force amid serious allegations. The outcome of the investigation remains to be seen, with both public and professional scrutiny expected to continue