Barak Abramov Addresses Criminal Attacks on Japanika Chain and Reveals Call with Minister Ben Gvir

Barak Abramov, owner of the Japanika restaurant chain, spoke publicly for the first time about the recent criminal attacks on nine of his outlets. In an interview with Haim Etgar on Keshet 12's Studio Friday, Abramov denied any business ties to crime families but acknowledged personal acquaintance with the Musli and Jarushi families, known for their criminal conflicts. He described his relationship as minimal and symbolic, emphasizing no business connections.

Abramov recounted receiving a phone call from National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and senior police officials, who assured him they knew he had no criminal links. During a conference call, they requested a list of all 46 Japanika branches to assign police patrols for protection. Abramov challenged authorities to arrest him if any ties to crime families were found, asserting he is a victim of the attacks.

He also mentioned his business partner is Bank Leumi, which recently invested 200 million shekels for a 20% stake in the company. Abramov said Bank Leumi executives contacted him to check on the situation amid the attacks. He expressed frustration over what he perceives as negative media coverage, attributing it to Victor Vakrat, CEO of Leumi Partners, who previously worked at Keshet.

Abramov hopes the violent incidents will soon end and stressed his innocence, stating, "If I were not a victim, I would not be sitting here." The interview sheds light on the ongoing security challenges faced by the Japanika chain and the involvement of high-level officials in addressing the situation.