09 Feb 2022; MEMO: Israel Police Chief Kobi Shabtai cut short his official visit to the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday, returned to Israel to follow up on reports that his force unlawfully used the Pegasus spyware, local media reported.
Media reports had previously reported the illicit use by police of powerful spyware against confidantes of former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other public figures.
"In light of recent publications and in order to keep a close eye on developments, the commissioner will shorten his visit," the police said in a statement.
According to the statement, Shabtai supports an investigation headed by a judge, pointing out that the police "has nothing to hide from the public."
Shabtai's early return reflects the seriousness of the allegations, local media said.
Police denied the allegations and said no evidence of illegal activity had been uncovered.
As a result of the scandal, Netanyahu's corruption trial was postponed to await answers from the prosecution about the hacking allegations.
