Israel Police National Fraud Investigation Unit is recommending criminal indictments against Australian billionaire Martin Schlaff and the sons of former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, Omri and Gilad, for their alleged part in mediating $3 million in bribes.

The case dates back about eight years, when it was reported that S. African businessman Cyril Kern deposited $1.5 million in Ariel Sharon’s account, money that the Sharons insisted was a loan, nothing more. It has since been learned that Kern was allegedly acting as Schlaff’s front man, sending funds to various Sharon family accounts to advance his interests in Israel.

The daily Haaretz reports that police submitted its recommendation to Attorney General Yehuda Weinstein weeks ago, and the attorney general must decide if he will move ahead with criminal indictments or not.

Police point out in the recommendation they are aware the main suspect in the case, Ariel Sharon, will not be able to stand trial for his alleged illegal activities due to his condition.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)