Yoav Eliasi Officially Removed from Police Amid Criminal Investigation Over Nightclub Ties

Yoav Eliasi, known as "HaTzal" (The Shadow), was officially dismissed from his police role on Sunday following a criminal investigation by the Police Investigations Department (Mahash). Earlier this month, Eliasi was questioned under caution on suspicion of breach of trust related to allegations that he exploited his police connections to benefit a Tel Aviv entertainment complex linked to his family. Prior to the formal dismissal, Police Commissioner Major General Danny Levi had already removed Eliasi from his position as commander of the rapid response unit in the Tel Aviv district.

Eliasi appeared for questioning at Mahash's Tel Aviv branch on August 5. After the interrogation, he was suspended from police facilities for a week. Three other officers, including an intelligence coordinator, were also investigated and suspended for three days on similar breach of trust suspicions. The probe originated from an investigative report published by Haaretz, which included recordings of Eliasi claiming he could intervene in police matters affecting the nightclub.

In one recording, Eliasi told a partner, "I educate them at the police that no one can touch this club," and added, "Anything related to the police and the club, you call me immediately, no matter the hour." Another recording captured him demanding explanations after the club was shut down early in the morning, mentioning a close relationship with a police officer involved. Security chief Idan Harpak described Eliasi as a "magic word" with police, suggesting the club received special treatment due to his influence.

The entertainment complex includes the "John Doe" nightclub and the "Q Gallery" restaurant above it, operated as separate businesses but with overlapping shareholders. One holding company, A.Y. Eliasi Ltd., was established in January 2025 by Eliasi's brother Itamar, with shares later transferred to Yoav and their father Rafael before reverting to Itamar. The company's registered address remains Yoav Eliasi's residence, and Itamar is also a partner in the nightclub.

Following the report, Mahash launched a criminal investigation involving Eliasi, the three officers, and other witnesses. Eliasi's police weapon was confiscated earlier. With the investigation ongoing, his dismissal from the police force has now been formalized.