A joint investigation by the Jerusalem District Police Fraud Unit and the National Insurance Institute (NII) has exposed a widespread fraud scheme involving tens of millions of shekels in deceitful claims for "disabled child" benefits, authorities announced in a joint statement Thursday.
The operation centered on exploiting state support intended for children with autism, using a sophisticated network of forged documents and false representations to unlawfully secure public funds.
The Modus Operandi
The central figure in the alleged scam is a resident of southern Israel who operated through her privately owned company. According to the investigation, the company offered families "assistance" in applying for disability benefits for their children.
Investigators allege the suspect systematically recruited parents, many of whom were aware their children did not meet the strict NII eligibility criteria. She then submitted false claims on their behalf by using their personal access codes to log into the NII's computerized system.
The fraudulent claims included forged medical documents, fabricated professional opinions and falsified forms bearing the apparent signatures of recognized professionals.
For participation in this illicit activity, the main suspect allegedly charged families tens of thousands of shekels per case, diverting vast sums intended for public welfare into personal profit.
