Shas Knesset member Haim Biton was questioned by investigators on Sunday evening as Israeli authorities continued examining allegations surrounding the misuse of public funds during his previous leadership role in an ultra-Orthodox education network.
The latest interview forms part of additional investigative steps being carried out before prosecutors decide whether criminal charges should be pursued.
Investigation Centers on Alleged Use of Education Funds
According to investigators, Biton is suspected of directing money from the Ma’ayan HaChinuch HaTorani education network to support a privately owned newspaper affiliated with the Shas party.
The allegations date back roughly seven years, when Biton served as the education network’s director general.
Authorities are examining whether public resources intended for educational purposes were instead used to finance the haredi publication.
Lahav 433 Continues High-Profile Probe
The investigation has been led by Lahav 433, Israel’s elite national police unit responsible for handling complex corruption and financial crime cases.
Officials questioned Biton as part of supplementary investigative proceedings, suggesting detectives are completing the final stages of evidence gathering before the case moves beyond the investigative phase.
Prosecutors Expected to Review the Case Soon
After more than a year under police investigation, the case is expected to be transferred in the near future to the State Attorney’s Office and the Attorney General.
Prosecutors will review the evidence collected by investigators before deciding whether there is sufficient basis to file an indictment against Biton.
Case Remains Ongoing
No final legal decision has been announced, and the investigation remains active as authorities complete their review.f
