Guatemala rescues 160 children from extremist Jewish sect

(CLO) More than 160 children and teenagers have been rescued from the extremist Jewish sect Lev Tahor after allegations of child abuse, including rape.

The rescue, which took place in Oratorio, a farming town 78 kilometers southeast of Guatemala, exposed disturbing practices within the Lev Tahor community. It is not the first time the sect has faced allegations of abuse.

"Based on the statements of the complainants, the evidence collected and the results of the medical examinations, it can be confirmed that these minors were subjected to various forms of human trafficking, including forced marriage, abuse and related crimes," Nancy Paiz, prosecutor at the Guatemalan Anti-Trafficking Prosecutor's Office, said at a press conference.

Police take part in a rescue operation for children at a farm in the city of Oratorio, Guatemala. Photo: Attorney General of Guatemala

The Lev Tahor community, founded in 1988 in Israel, adheres to strict rules and rituals, including lengthy prayer sessions and arranged marriages.

The Lev Tahor sect, which means 'Pure Heart' in Hebrew, has faced alarming allegations of kidnapping, child marriage and physical abuse.

Between 2014 and 2017, the Lev Tahor community migrated and settled in Mexico and Guatemala. In 2022, a Mexican police raid in Chiapas rescued child victims from their camp.

The Guatemalan Jewish community has spoken out to deny any connection with the Lev Tahor sect and expressed strong support for government efforts to ensure the safety of children.

The community has sent an urgent appeal to relevant governments and diplomatic agencies, asking them to intervene to protect the victims of the Lev Tahor sect.

The minors are now under government protection and investigations are ongoing.

Ha Trang (according to DW, Reuters)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/guatemala-giai-cuu-160-tre-em-khoi-giao-phai-do-thai-cuc-doan-post326974.html