Jerusalem Man Identified as Suspect in Child Kidnapping for Alms

A court in Petah Tikva has permitted the publication of the name of a 19-year-old Jerusalem resident, Yigal Buskila, suspected of kidnapping a 10-year-old boy, Yahli Sofer. Police sought to lift the gag order on Buskila's name due to suspicions that other minors may have been victimized by his actions. Sofer disappeared on the evening of August 30th after going out to play near his home in Petah Tikva. Hours later, police found the child in Bnei Brak with Buskila. According to the boy's account, Buskila approached children asking for money, and Yahli took pity on him after hearing a story about being kicked out of his home with no means. Investigators believe Buskila then used the child to collect alms before taking him by bus to Bnei Brak. Further investigation has uncovered information suggesting Buskila may have targeted other children in various locations across the country. At a September 10th court hearing, police stated Buskila is suspected of crimes against two additional minors. The court extended his detention for the fourth time and allowed his name to be published, though this was temporarily delayed for a defense appeal. Buskila's lawyer argued he is disabled and has an intellectual disability, and that video evidence did not show the child being held by force. The court, however, maintained that sufficient grounds for suspicion exist and kept Buskila in custody.