Police Raid Closed Community Over Suspected Underage Marriages

Dozens of police officers from the Northern District raided several locations in Yavniel on Thursday as part of an ongoing investigation into the phenomenon of underage marriages. The operation, which has been underway for several months, led to the detention of 16 minors and adults from the community. Authorities suspect that some of those detained were recently married or were actively preparing for illegal wedding ceremonies.

The detentions are part of a broader effort by Israeli police to combat the alleged practice within a small, closed community primarily based in Yavniel in the Lower Galilee. In a similar operation several weeks prior, over 20 additional suspects were detained for alleged involvement in underage marriages.

According to suspicions, these ceremonies are typically held in the morning with a limited number of attendees, their locations kept secret until shortly before they begin. Participants are reportedly forbidden from bringing phones or taking pictures.

The police emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and aims to protect the safety and rights of minors. "The Israel Police will continue to act decisively against any offense that harms minors and the helpless," a police statement read. The investigation is being conducted in cooperation with law enforcement and welfare agencies to uncover the truth, prosecute those involved, and prevent the continuation of the phenomenon.