Israeli Rapper Yoav Eliasi Officially Removed from Police Force Amid Corruption Probe

Yoav Eliasi, known as the rapper "HaTzel," has been officially removed from the Israeli police following his dismissal as commander of the rapid response unit in Tel Aviv. The decision came after Eliasi was questioned under caution on suspicion of breach of trust and was suspended from police facilities for a week. Alongside him, three other officers, including an intelligence coordinator, were investigated for allegedly aiding and granting police leniency to a nightclub owned by Eliasi's brother.

The police commissioner, Major General Danny Levi, decided about two weeks ago to remove Eliasi from his position after an investigative report by Haaretz revealed that Eliasi boasted about using his police connections to prevent the closure of a nightlife venue in which he held a stake. The venue in question consists of two businesses: the John Doe nightclub and the Kyo Gallery restaurant above it. Ownership is shared among several shareholders, including Eliasi's brother Itamar and other partners, with complex share transfers involving Eliasi family members.

Recordings published by Haaretz showed Eliasi claiming his police ties helped keep the John Doe nightclub open after a violent incident. He expressed frustration over police decisions to close the club early and assured associates that any police issues would be handled by him directly. Security staff at the club also testified that Eliasi's name was a "magic word" that ensured police leniency and special treatment for the venue.

Eliasi’s weapon was confiscated as part of the investigation. The probe highlights concerns about corruption and improper influence within the police related to nightlife establishments connected to Eliasi’s family. The investigation and disciplinary actions are ongoing, with further developments expected as authorities continue to examine the case.