New development reported in Bitan corruption probe, but gag order remains

The corruption probe into former coalition whip MK David Bitan (Likud) has expanded, sources close to the investigation say, with a new development Sunday whose details remain under gag order.

Bitan is under investigation for allegedly accepting bribes from businesspeople in the Tel Aviv-area city of Rishon Lezion while he served as its deputy mayor. Last month, police reported another major development as the Bitan probe expanded to include new allegations of corruption reportedly linked to real estate developer Moshe Yosef.

Police also recently arrested a top official at the construction company Danya Cebus on suspicion of paying some NIS 300,000 in bribes to Bitan for help in advancing plans for building gas stations along the Route 6 highway.

Both suspects are reportedly in negotiations to turn state witness.