Arrested: Issued driver's licenses to drivers with health problems for a fee

December 13, 2021   

An employee of the Medical Institute for Road Safety (MIRTS) was arrested today (Monday) by the police on suspicion of approving driver's licenses for drivers who were disqualified for health reasons - in exchange for a payment. The police investigation was opened following an inspection and report by the Ministry of Health. These are serious suspicions of violating moral integrity and approving a driver's license for someone who is not qualified to do so, while putting the public at risk. The MIRTS deals, among other things, with permit applications for obtaining a license for those disqualified for health reasons, disqualifications due to drug and alcohol use, drivers who were involved in fatal road accidents, and the like. As soon as suspicions arose regarding the approval of the licenses and other issues - the case was immediately reported to the police, who conducted an undercover investigation that became public today with the arrest of the employee and other suspects. After the report and the provision of the details, the Ministry of Health operated in continuous contact with the Israel Police at all times. It should be noted that as part of the Ministry of Health's preparations for the progress of the investigation and the arrest, actions have been taken that allow for the continuation of continuous activity at the Regional Medical Center. However, there may be delays in receiving a response in the coming days.