What's happened
Multiple countries have conducted raids on the Lev Tahor community, a sect accused of child abuse and human trafficking. In Guatemala, 160 minors were rescued last December. Recent operations in Colombia and Colombia have led to the detention of members and the rescue of children, with authorities questioning sect members and considering deportations.
What's behind the headline?
The ongoing investigations into Lev Tahor reveal a pattern of international legal challenges and human rights violations. The sect's extreme interpretation of Judaism and strict dress codes for women have contributed to its isolation and scrutiny. Recent raids demonstrate a coordinated effort by multiple countries to dismantle the group's operations and protect minors. The sect's history of fleeing authorities and seeking refuge underscores its resilience and the difficulty in curbing its activities. These operations will likely intensify as authorities aim to dismantle the leadership and prevent further abuse, but the sect's ability to adapt and relocate poses ongoing challenges for law enforcement.
What the papers say
The New Arab reports on the recent raids and international alerts, highlighting the rescue of 17 minors and the suspicion of kidnapping and trafficking. AP News details the Colombian operation, including questioning sect members and potential deportations, emphasizing the sect's recent arrival in Colombia and previous actions in Guatemala and Mexico. The Times of Israel provides historical context, noting the sect's origins, allegations of child abuse, and the imprisonment of its leaders, illustrating the long-standing concerns and legal actions against Lev Tahor.
How we got here
Lev Tahor, founded in Jerusalem in the 1980s, is a sect known for extreme religious practices and allegations of child abuse. Members have sought refuge in various countries, including Guatemala, Canada, Mexico, and Israel. Authorities have repeatedly investigated the group, which is led by individuals with criminal convictions related to kidnapping and exploitation. Recent rescues follow longstanding concerns over mistreatment and illegal activities within the sect.
Go deeper
Common question
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What is the Lev Tahor sect and why are authorities rescuing minors?
Recent international raids have brought attention to the Lev Tahor sect, a controversial religious group accused of child abuse and trafficking. Authorities across multiple countries have intervened to rescue minors and investigate allegations against the group. But what exactly is Lev Tahor, and why are authorities so concerned? Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this ongoing crisis and what it means for child safety worldwide.
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Child Safety & Sect Abuse: What You Need to Know
Recent international raids have brought to light serious concerns about sect-related child abuse and trafficking. Authorities are actively rescuing minors and taking legal action against dangerous sects like Lev Tahor. If you're worried about how to spot signs of abuse or protect children from harmful sect influence, this page provides clear answers to your most pressing questions.
More on these topics
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Lev Tahor is an Haredi Jewish cult of about 200 members, which follows an austere form of Jewish practice. The group, founded by Shlomo Helbrans, adheres to its own atypical interpretations of halakha, including unique practices such as lengthy prayer ses