The central case in the affair exposed the suspect's cynical operating method. He maintained contact with a wheelchair-bound woman and asked her for a loan of a few shekels due to being "called up for reserve duty." Exploiting her physical disability, he took her credit card under the pretext that he would make the withdrawal for her at the ATM, but without her knowledge withdrew thousands of shekels, disappeared, and cut off contact with her.
The investigation was based on assembling puzzle pieces and cross-referencing operating methods and collecting similar characteristics from dozens of fraud cases that occurred over the past three years. The cases took place throughout the country, including in the Krayot, Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and the South.
The suspect was recently located and arrested for questioning through nationwide cooperation with additional police stations. During his interrogation, he confessed. His detention has been extended at the police's request, and today a prosecutor's statement is expected to be filed against him ahead of submitting a severe indictment and a request for his detention until the end of proceedings.
The Israel Police spokesperson stated: "Israel Police will continue to act decisively against criminals who exploit the good faith of citizens and harm vulnerable and helpless populations. The police will not let up on these criminals until they are brought to justice."
