Daily Reports
Major Fraud Uncovered at Rami Levy Supermarkets
A significant fraud scheme has been uncovered at the Rami Levy supermarket chain, leading to the indictment of 50 employees and their accomplices. The suspects, primarily residents of Jessar a-Zarqa and Furidis, have been accused of stealing products and cash worth approximately half a million shekels.
The investigation, initiated in January by the Coast District police and officers from Zichron Ya'akov, followed a report from the store's security team, which noted suspicious thefts. The modus operandi involved cashiers manipulating cash registers to emit scanning sounds without actually ringing up charges. This allowed them to move products through the checkout line without payment, facilitated by accomplices posing as customers.
Suspects were recorded in over 70 such incidents across a two-week period. Once apprehended, they remained in custody under restrictive conditions. With the conclusion of the investigation in May 2024, indictments were filed against numerous suspects. The method involved careful planning and coordination, with distinct roles assigned within the group.
Statements from both police and the supermarket chain emphasize the systematic nature of the crimes. Rami Levy Sycame Marketing has expressed trust in the police's ability to handle the investigation diligently. Among those indicted are young cashiers aged 18 to 21 from Jessar al-Zarqa and Furidis, as well as older accomplices who acted as the "buyers."
In many cases, the cashiers themselves also participated in purchase activities. The stolen goods ranged from food products and beverages to cleaning supplies and cosmetics, often resulting in significant financial loss for the supermarket. The coordinated thefts took place at all hours and only ceased upon the apprehension of the culprits.
The charges against the accused include theft from an employer, receiving goods through fraud, and theft by deception. The police and judicial system have highlighted the planned and conscious nature of the crimes, which involved sophisticated strategies to evade detection initially.
- The case has shocked the local community, given the scale and brazenness of the theft. The police have reiterated their commitment to bringing all perpetrators to justice and ensuring the integrity of the legal process.
- Rami Levy has also taken steps to reinforce security measures at their branches, aiming to prevent future incidents of this nature. They affirm their confidence in the court system to deliver just outcomes.
