Israeli authorities plan to file indictments against Latif Abu Latif, the alleged head of one of Israel’s most powerful criminal organizations, and 11 of his associates, the Attorney General’s office announced on Sunday morning.
The suspects, described as senior operatives in the Abu Latif crime organization, face charges of blackmail, tax offenses, and large-scale money laundering. Authorities say the group extorted contractors bidding on infrastructure tenders, using threats and violence to dominate both public and private projects.
Police called the organization a violent monopoly that evolved from local extortion into a nationwide criminal network controlling billions in contracts. Investigators believe the group is responsible for over 30 murders in the past two years.
Twelve key suspects—including Latif Abu Latif—were among 36 people arrested in a massive raid involving 1,000 officers. Luxury vehicles, including Maseratis and Porsches, were seized as evidence of illicit wealth. Prosecutors plan to request their continued detention until trial.