Justice Ministry Revokes Two Guard Firms’ Licenses Over Protection-Racket Cover

The Justice Ministry’s Committee for Licensing Private Investigators and Guard Services revoked the licenses of HaKesefet and Egoz, along with licenses held by their guard-service organizers. The committee found after hearings and a review of police, prosecution and intelligence evidence that the companies and their owners provided accounting cover for protection-money collection at construction sites. Customers were allegedly told their property would be damaged unless they paid for guarding, while in many cases no guarding service was provided. The companies and relevant license holders may not apply to renew their licenses for three years.