Lahav 433 Chief Asst.-Ch. Meni Benjamin Identified as Officer Under Investigation for Breach of Trust

Assistant-Chief Meni Benjamin, head of Israel Police’s elite Lahav 433 National Crime Unit, is under investigation by the Justice Ministry’s Police Investigative Department (PID) for suspected breach of trust and abuse of power, Israeli media revealed Thursday.

Benjamin was detained Wednesday evening at the end of a senior officers’ seminar in Jerusalem and taken in for questioning a move that sent shockwaves through both the police and political spheres.

While the details of the suspicions remain under court-imposed confidentiality, sources say the allegations center on alleged professional misconduct during his tenure in one of Israel’s most sensitive law enforcement roles. Lahav 433 is widely referred to as Israel’s “FBI,” and leads major national investigations, including high-profile corruption cases.

The investigation’s exposure turned controversial after Likud MK Tally Gotliv publicly named Benjamin on Thursday, openly defying a judicial gag order designed to protect the integrity of the case.

The incident has already ignited political debate. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir who appointed Benjamin to the prestigious role stood by him, affirming his right to the presumption of innocence. “Everyone is entitled to due process,” Ben-Gvir said, calling for a thorough but fair investigation.

Benjamin has recently overseen sensitive probes, including the ongoing investigation into alleged corruption at the Histadrut labor federation. His removal from active duty, pending the outcome of the investigation, could have major implications for multiple ongoing cases.

The rare targeting of such a senior officer reflects broader tensions within Israeli law enforcement and governance. In recent years, public trust in national institutions has been repeatedly tested, with corruption allegations, political interference, and judicial scrutiny taking center stage.

As Israel continues to grapple with deep internal challenges from security threats to economic pressures ensuring the integrity of its justice system remains essential.

Justice must be pursued with impartiality and accountability. Share this article and subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on the key issues shaping Israel’s legal and political future.