Raanana Deputy Mayor arrested on fraud and bribery

Ra’anana Deputy Mayor Yoel Azarzar took bribes to advance building projects and embezzled funds from the local burial committee, Israel Police’s National Fraud Squad said on Tuesday.

Azarzar, who could face charges of bribery, fraud, money laundering and embezzlement, was brought to the Rishon Lezion Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, where his remand was extended by four days.

Azarzar’s attorney Tzadok Hugi told The JP that his client has denied all of the charges against him. 

The case “is simply a politically driven campaign by police to destroy my client,” Hugi said.

He added that he expects Azarzar to be released from custody at his next remand hearing.