Defense Ministry contractors detained for allegedly hiring Palestinians who illegally entered Israel

Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian is The Times of Israel's military correspondent

Several Defense Ministry contractors who won tenders to carry out infrastructure work at army bases and other sensitive facilities were detained for allegedly hiring unauthorized laborers, including Palestinians who illegally entered Israel.

The Defense Ministry and Israel Police in a joint statement say that the contractors were likely aware that they were hiring unauthorized workers, including the Palestinians.

Authorities say that they suspect bribes were given to officials who participated or knew of document forgery, which allowed the unauthorized workers to enter IDF bases and sensitive facilities.

Five West Bank Palestinians were arrested last week, and fake documents, including IDs and car licenses, used to enter the IDF bases were seized, the ministry and police say.

This morning, four Israeli suspects were arrested in the case.

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