Senior Israeli Police Officer Yoav Eliasi to Be Dismissed Over Nightclub Corruption Allegations

Reserve Chief Superintendent Yoav Eliasi, known as "HaTzel," is set to be dismissed from his role as commander of the rapid response unit in the Tel Aviv district following allegations of abusing police connections to benefit a nightclub he partly owns. The decision came after a hearing held about ten days ago and an official removal procedure was initiated. Eliasi was investigated last week by the Police Investigations Department on suspicion of breach of trust related to a Tel Aviv nightclub owned by his brother. Three other officers were also questioned for allegedly providing favors and assistance to the club. All four were released under restrictive conditions, including bans from police facilities, while the investigation continues.

Earlier, another police officer of the same rank was questioned under caution for allegedly advancing Eliasi's interests at the nightclub and was similarly released with restrictions, including a ten-day prohibition on contact with those involved. The probe began after a Haaretz report revealed Eliasi boasted about using his police ties to prevent the closure of the "John Doe" club following a violent incident. He reportedly claimed to "educate" the police that the club was untouchable and demanded immediate updates on any police-related events there. Following the exposé, the Police Internal Investigations Department opened an ongoing inquiry. After the recent hearing and review, authorities decided to remove Eliasi from his command position in Tel Aviv.