_a.jpg "Photo: Yaron Brener")
McDonald's blackmail plot foiled
Baka al Garbia resident contacts fast food chain in Israel demanding millions of shekels over bogus film clip allegedly showing worms inside one of company's local branches
A 34-year-old resident of Baka al Garbia was arrested Friday on suspicion of trying to blackmail McDonald's. The man claimed he was in possession of a film allegedly showing health hazards in one of the chain's branches and demanded million of shekels for his silence.
However, the clip appears to have been staged.
A police inquiry indicates that the man contacted a McDonald's representative in Israel a month ago using an alias, and claimed to be in possession of a video taken in one of the company's branches and showing major health hazards. He then demanded to meet a McDonald's representative in order to present him with the proof.
A complaint was filed with police and an investigation was launched. As part of the inquiry police set up a meeting with the suspect. During the meeting the suspect presented the film which appeared to have been doctored and edited, showing worms inside a fridge in a McDonald's branch.
The suspect did not stipulate the exact sum he was demanding but made it clear it would amount to millions "since he was dealing with one of the largest companies in Israel."
He was arrested at the end of the meeting and taken into questioning where he admitted to the allegations.
The suspect is expected to face a remand hearing at the Tel Aviv Magistrate's Court on Saturday. Police sources said additional arrests are expected in the affair.
