Police Arrest Dozens in Hasidic Community Over Illegal Minor Marriages

Dozens of police officers raided locations in the Hasidic community of Breslov in northern Israel, detaining numerous individuals suspected of involvement in underage marriages. The investigation uncovered a sophisticated method used for conducting secret weddings for minors.

This operation follows a similar one two weeks prior, where over 20 other suspects were detained in connection with the same phenomenon. The police stated they would continue to act decisively against such offenses.

The recent operation, which took place in the town of Yavne'el in the Lower Galilee, led to the detention of 16 minors and adults. These individuals are suspected of recently marrying or preparing for illegal wedding ceremonies.

The investigation focused on a small, closed community and revealed that most of these secret ceremonies occur in the morning with a limited number of attendees. The locations are kept secret until the last moment, and photography and mobile phones are prohibited to prevent documentation.

In February, police intercepted an underage wedding ceremony in progress at a house in the community. Often, a secondary event, disguised as an engagement party, is held later for a wider circle of relatives. The police emphasized their commitment to protecting the safety, security, and rights of minors, vowing to continue their determined efforts against all offenses harming minors and the helpless, including illegal underage marriages. The investigation will proceed with all relevant law enforcement and welfare agencies to uncover the truth, prosecute those involved, and prevent the continuation of this practice.