The head of a local council in northern Israel and four other individuals were arrested on suspicion of bribery following a months-long covert investigation. The probe, led by the national major crimes unit, focused on alleged corruption involving local officials across several northern towns.

According to investigators, evidence suggests that officials maintained improper ties with service providers in the computing sector, who allegedly offered benefits in exchange for securing local government tenders. Authorities also suspect that the individuals collaborated to fraudulently divert public funds.

In addition to the five arrests, five other suspects were detained for questioning, and searches were carried out at the offices of local officials. Police said they will bring the suspects before a court to request an extension of their detention.