Israeli Police Officer Investigated for Misconduct in 'HaTzel' Dismissal Case

The Police Investigations Department (Mahash) questioned a police officer holding the rank of Chief Sergeant (Rav-Pakid) on Sunday under caution, suspecting him of breach of trust. This investigation is part of the case surrounding the dismissal of Yoav Eliasi, known as "HaTzel," from his role as commander of the rapid response unit in the Tel Aviv district. The officer is suspected of advancing Eliasi's interests in a nightclub where Eliasi is a partner. After the interrogation, the officer was released under conditions including a ban from police facilities and a prohibition on contacting involved parties for 10 days. Mahash emphasized that the investigation is ongoing.

This probe follows a report by Haaretz that led the police commissioner to remove Eliasi from his command position last Thursday. The report alleged that Eliasi, who is close to National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, exploited his police connections to benefit a Tel Aviv entertainment venue he co-owned. Recordings published in the investigation reportedly show Eliasi boasting about his ties with police officials and the assistance he received. These connections allegedly helped prevent the closure of the "John Doe" club after a violent incident occurred there. The police commissioner canceled Eliasi's appointment as commander of the rapid response unit, halting his role in the unit despite a prior decision to appoint him.