After a two-month clandestine investigation, which was prompted by a number of complaints filed with police in the Jerusalem and Central districts, a man suspected of embezzling chareidim was taken into custody. The man is custody is a 46-year-old resident of Ashdod.

According to a police report, the suspect operated in chareidi areas, presenting himself as a diamond merchant. He would ask innocent persons if they can tell him where he can find a rav to advise him on an impending large business deal, then beginning to chat with a potential victim, leading to embezzling funds from the victim, amounting to over NIS 100,000.

Towards gaining the trust of the victims, he would show jewels which he explained could serve as collateral for their investment, diamonds that were later determined to be fake.

On Sunday, 26 Marcheshvan, police arrested a suspect and a search of his home revealed a number of mobile phones and SIM cards, which were apparently used to perpetrate the law-breaking activities according to police.

The suspect was arraigned on Monday and his extend was remanded. The investigation continues.

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)