Right-Wing Activist Yoav Eliasi Faces Final Dismissal from Tel Aviv Police Volunteer Role

Yoav Eliasi, known as "The Shadow," a right-wing activist and musician, is set to be permanently removed from his volunteer position as commander of the Tel Aviv police rapid response unit. This decision follows an internal review and hearing after allegations surfaced that Eliasi used his police connections to benefit a nightlife venue in which he was involved. The process to end his role, known as "griah," was initiated about ten days after the hearing.

The investigation by the Police Investigations Department included questioning three police officers, including an intelligence coordinator, suspected of aiding the venue owned by Eliasi's brother. All four individuals were interrogated under suspicion of breach of trust.

Eliasi responded to the reports by denying that he had been dismissed, stating he had voluntarily suspended his volunteer activities pending the investigation. He criticized media headlines as misleading and emphasized his pride in his three years of volunteer service with the Israeli police, highlighting his dedication and the unit he helped establish. He asserted that no headline could diminish his contributions, which he said were motivated by service rather than rank or title.

The case remains under review, with Eliasi currently suspended from volunteer duties until the investigation concludes. If cleared, he may resume his role.