Matthew 28:12-15

12And when the chief priests had gathered with the elders and had consulted together [to develop a plan of deception], they gave a sufficient sum of money [as a bribe] to the soldiers,

13and said, “You say this, ‘His disciples came at night and stole Him while we were sleeping.’

14And if the governor (Pilate) hears about it, we will calm him down and keep you out of trouble.”

15So they took the money [they were paid for lying] and did as they were instructed; and this [fabricated] story was widely spread among the Jews, and is to the present day.