Rapper Yoav Eliasi Summoned for Police Investigation Following Dismissal

Yoav Eliasi, known as "HaTzel," was summoned on Wednesday for questioning at the Tel Aviv branch of the Police Investigations Department (Mahash) a week after being removed from his position as head of the readiness unit in the Tel Aviv police district. Upon arrival, Eliasi posted a photo of the Mahash entrance on Facebook with the caption "Good morning." Another police officer is also under investigation by Mahash on suspicion of breach of trust related to the case.

Eliasi's dismissal followed an investigative report by Haaretz alleging that he, who is close to National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, exploited his police connections to benefit a nightlife venue in which he is a partner. The report included recordings in which Eliasi allegedly boasted about his ties to police officials and the assistance he received from them. These connections reportedly helped prevent the closure of the "John Doe" club after a violent incident occurred there.

Following the report, the police commissioner canceled Eliasi's appointment as head of the readiness unit, ending his role in the police framework despite a prior decision to appoint him. Earlier this week, Mahash interrogated a police officer with the rank of deputy chief inspector under caution, suspected of breach of trust for promoting Eliasi's interests at the club. The officer was released with conditions barring him from police facilities and contact with involved parties for 10 days.