Prisons Service fires intelligence officer tied to ‘pimping’ case

Israel Prisons Service Commissioner Katy Perry orders immediate dismissal procedures against an intelligence officer involved in the so-called “pimping” case at Gilboa Prison.

The Prisons Service statement identifies the officer as Rani Basha and says he served as the intelligence officer at the prison four years ago, when the alleged assaults took place.

The case centers on claims that female guards at the prison were forced to act as sexual bargaining chips for high-profile inmates.

Perry’s decision came about due to the move to open an investigation earlier today, and other developments, including evidence presented in news reports.

Perry informs Public Security Minister Omer Barlev and says she welcomes the opening of the investigation.

Earlier today, State Prosecutor Amit Aisman ordered police to reopen a probe into the claims.

The case was previously closed despite several soldiers serving as guards complaining of sexual harassment and assault. The allegations resurfaced last month after a top prison official mentioned them during an inquiry into an escape from the jail.

Guards claim they were put in close contact with certain prisoners, where they were sexually assaulted or harassed, as part of a tacit bargain between wardens and inmates to keep prisoners from rioting or making other types of trouble.