Kiryat Gat Resident and Felon Beni Motza Arrested in Business Extortion Case
A Kiryat Gat resident and Ashdod felon Beni Motza were arrested for allegedly extorting thousands of shekels from a businessman. A court extended their remand by four days as the investigation continues.
A 30-year-old resident of Kiryat Gat, the son of a known criminal, was arrested over the weekend on suspicion of extortion alongside Ashdod felon Beni Motza. The suspects are accused of shaking down a businessman for thousands of shekels.
The investigation was launched about a month ago following a detailed complaint filed by the victim. Initially conducted covertly, the probe recently transitioned to an open investigation, culminating in the arrests. Motza's detention has already been extended by four days.
During a hearing at the Ashkelon Magistrate's Court, police requested a six-day extension for the Kiryat Gat suspect. Investigators stated that the suspect, acting in concert with others, threatened and extorted funds from the complainant. Authorities noted that the investigation remains in its early stages and specific details have not yet been put to the suspect.
The suspect opted to remain silent during questioning. His defense counsel, attorney Yonat Ben Hayim, pressed for details regarding the alleged extortion, but investigators refused, citing potential obstruction of justice. The defense questioned the timing of the arrest, noting it occurred a full month after the initial complaint.
At the conclusion of the proceedings, the judge ordered a four-day extension of the suspect's remand to allow law enforcement to conduct further investigative procedures.
