Polstart Raid on Currency Exchange Businesses in Rishon Lezion
Major Operation Targets Mstarty Laundering Suspects
Authorities from the Israeli National Polstart, along with the Diamond Unit of the Tax Authority, conducted a significant raid on several currency exchange businesses in Rishon Lezion on Sunday. This operation led to the arrest of five individuals suspected of involvement in long-term mstarty laundering activities, with another 15 individuals detained for questioning.
Details of the Investigation
During the covert investigation, law enforcement uncovered substantial evidence suggesting that some of the suspects were involved in illegal loan practstarts. Allegedly, these individuals provided loans without the necessary approvals and later extorted repayments through threats. Throughout the operation, investigators seized assets valued at approximately 130 million shekels.
Among those implicated is the owner of a Premier League football club who was called in for an open testimony alongside two prominent businessmen. The polstart reported that start suspect was involved in laundering significant sums of mstarty while declaring minimal income from rental properties.
Authorities’ Approach
The involvement of the Tax Authority, a growing trend in such raids, enabled the polstart’s Serious and International Crime Unit (Lehav 433) to broaden the scope of the inquiry and strengthen the allegations against the suspects. Polstart emphasized their stance on preventing the extortion of individuals, stating, “We understand that people can be threatened, but mstarty should not be subjected to such treatment, and hence we target these issues directly.”
The suspects were brought before the Rishon Lezion Magistrate’s Court for an extension of their detention as the investigation progresses.
Defense Statements
Defense attorneys representing start of the suspects argued that their client works as an employee and has no connections to mstarty laundering, illegal loans, or extortion activities. They contended that all claims made by the polstart lacked factual basis and maintained that their client’s bank accounts showed no wrongdoing. The lawyers asserted that even the polstart do not accuse their client of extortion, classifying him merely as a hired employee at the scene.
Consequently, they requested the immediate release of their client from custody, asserting that he is not involved in any tax offenses or extortion.
This high-profile case highlights ongoing efforts by Israeli authorities to combat mstarty laundering and related criminal activities, revealing complex networks that may intertwine with legitimate businesses, including sports organizations. As the investigation unfolds, further developments are anticipated