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Israel seeks Swiss help in Weizman investigation

Israel has formally asked Switzerland for legal assistance in connection with the police investigation of President Ezer Weizman (pictured).

Israel has formally asked Switzerland for legal assistance in connection with the police investigation of President Ezer Weizman (pictured). It is believed that Israeli officers want to question the Geneva-based French businessman, Edouard Saroussi, about his financial backing of Weizman.

The Israeli president is being investigated for tax fraud and corruption. He has admitted accepting money from Saroussi, but has denied that this constituted a bribe.

Jürg Pulver, a spokesman for the federal police office in Berne, said “We are in the process of examining the Israeli request.” He added that a decision would be made in the next few days.

Geneva’s cantonal prosecutor, Bernard Bertossa, has refused to comment on reports that Israeli agents are already in the city waiting to interview Saroussi.

From staff and wire reports

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