Ayal Nagar Rises as Crime Boss in Southern Israel After Controversial Truce

Ayal Nagar, originally from Petah Tikva and later residing in Rehovot, has emerged as a leading crime figure in southern Israel following the assassination of Benny Shlomo, a prominent crime boss. Nagar began his criminal career at a young age and initially operated under Shlomo's wing, becoming one of his closest associates. After Shlomo's death, Nagar took over leadership, marking a significant power shift in the region's underworld.

Nagar's rise was marked by a controversial reconciliation with the Lavi family, long-time rivals who initially refused to forgive him for switching allegiances from their camp to Shlomo's. Despite past violent clashes and mutual assassination attempts, the truce between Nagar and the Lavi brothers has held, allowing Nagar to consolidate power in Ashdod and the southern region. He also strengthened ties with Georgian crime groups, further solidifying his influence.

Law enforcement views Nagar as a sophisticated and cautious figure, involved over the years in extortion, protection rackets, money laundering, and attempts to control distribution and delivery businesses in Ashdod. Although arrested multiple times, evidence has often been insufficient for prosecution. Nagar served four and a half years in prison for planting a bomb in a vehicle belonging to the Lavi brothers in 2015, highlighting the unusual nature of their later alliance.

Together with Benny Shlomo, Nagar built a significant power base in Ashdod, battling other criminal factions to dominate local income sources and businesses. His growing influence has made him a primary target for the southern district police. The complex dynamics between Nagar, the Lavi family, and other rivals like Shalom Domrani continue to shape the criminal landscape in southern Israel.