Former Crime Family Leader and Likud Branch Chairman Partner in Illegal Business in Herzliya
In a shocking revelation, it has been uncovered that Rafi Chaim-Kedushim, the former head of a notorious crime family and chairman of the Likud branch in Herzliya, is a hidden partner in an illegal business operating in the area. The business, named “Vaknin building materials,” has been operating without a business license for the past four years in a pastoral heritage site where the IDF’s first fighter squadron was established.
Despite a court decision to close the business five months ago, it remains open and operational. Mayor Moshe Padlon and the municipal engineer even organized a tour of the place with the Planning and Construction Committee, raising questions about their involvement. When questioned about this, the municipal engineer, Hana Harmesh, avoided giving a direct answer.
Israel Vakanin, the business partner of Kadoshim, first denied any partnership with him, claiming sole ownership of the business. However, he later admitted that Kadoshim had a small part in it. Kadoshim himself, when confronted, claimed that the business was not his, even though he owns half of it. He further denied any connection to the mayor, perhaps due to upcoming local government elections, where he will need support.
Kadoshim has had a notorious criminal past, with multiple convictions for violent crimes, including extortion, kidnapping, and protection. His own son was even convicted of shooting at the former owner of the Beitar Jerusalem football team. Despite this, Kadoshim has managed to gain significant influence and power in Herzliya, with top government officials, including Prime Minister Netanyahu, paying him visits.
When approached about the situation, Kadoshim claimed that the business had a permit for special use in the past and has applied for approval now as well. He denied any connection with the mayor and asserted that he has been forming a rival candidate list for the local government elections. Mayor Padlon, on the other hand, denied intervening in any way for the business owner and emphasized that he will form a coalition without any criminal elements.
The lack of action in shutting down the illegal business and the connections between Kadoshim and the mayor have raised concerns among the public. It remains to be seen how this scandal will impact the upcoming local government elections and the reputation of both Kadoshim and Mayor Padlon.