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IDF border fence project subject of corruption probe

Eight IDF officials, including the officer who oversees upgrades to the border fences, questioned under caution following allegations of wrongdoing; all but one of those under investigation likely to be cleared; soldier who raised suspicions suspended.

Military police have over the past year been quietly investigating allegations of conflicts of interest and false documentation in the IDF administration that oversees upgrades for border protection, Ynet was told on Sunday.

 

 

At least eight people involved in the multi-billion-shekel projects have been questioned under caution so far. The money in question consists of public funds provided to private companies and civilian contractors for the purpose of constructing the large border fences and advanced technological security systems at the border near the Sinai, Jordan, Syria, and the West Bank.

 

Netanyahu touring stretch of fence last week (Photo: Kobi Gideon)
Netanyahu touring stretch of fence last week (Photo: Kobi Gideon)

 

Among those questioned were officers of various ranks, including Brigadier-General Eran Ofir, known to the public for spearheading major defense engineering projects in recent years. IDF officials have defended the administration chief, noting that while he was questioned under caution, no accusations stuck. In addition to Ofir, a reserves colonel, lieutenant general, and major have all been questioned.

 

The military police investigation has reached advanced stages, and its results have been provided to Military Advocate General Sharon Afek. IDF sources say Afek decided in principle to close the case without prosecuting most of the individuals involved – but an official announcement is still forthcoming.

 

Inquiries by Ynet regarding the apparent decision to close most of the components of the case due to lack of evidence received no answer. That said, it appears that an indictment is to be issued against a lieutenant colonel, although it remains to be seen whether this would be a criminal or disciplinary matter. She was questioned because of a suspicion that a company that employs relatives of hers received contracts for the project.

 

The investigation into the administration began after a complaint by a major who claimed that he had witnesses a number of offenses in the administration, which grabbed headlines for constructing a 220-kilometer fence on the Egyptian border with relative speed.

 

The administration said that the major's accusations were merely a vengeful response to his dismissal. The officer was suspended because of alleged damage to morale and discipline in his unit.

 

Despite allegations that this officer intimidated the unit and was dishonest, he was not dismissed from the military and he continued serving, including in roles related to the sensitive projects.

 

The administration has continued work on boosting security at border areas, even as it has been investigated. Last week its officers hosted Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at a section of the border with Jordan near the planned site of the new Timna airport.

 


פרסום ראשון: 02.14.16, 11:59
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