Police Raid Bedouin Town in Negev Over Polygamy Allegations

Israeli police conducted raids on five compounds in the Bedouin town of Bir Hadaj in the Negev desert on September 24, 2026, as part of a crackdown on polygamy, which authorities describe as a "serious and unacceptable phenomenon." The operation, led by the anti-polygamy unit and the Southern District's central unit, involved investigators, intelligence officers, border police, and canine units.

Authorities detained approximately 10 individuals for questioning. The police stated that the raids targeted five individuals suspected of managing polygamous marriage structures. During the searches, investigators seized documents, marriage certificates, wedding photos, and mobile phones for examination. A substance suspected to be hashish was also found in one of the compounds.

According to the investigation materials, the five suspects are believed to be married to or managing relationships with a total of 15 women and have 67 children among them. Specific cases highlighted include a 25-year-old man suspected of being married to three women and fathering eight children, and a 32-year-old man suspected of being married to three women and fathering nine children.

The anti-polygamy unit in the Southern District was established in late 2024 by the Ministry of National Security in cooperation with the Israel Police to centralize law enforcement efforts against polygamy in the region. The unit has since conducted complex investigations, arrested suspects, and filed indictments in polygamy-related cases.

Police emphasized that polygamy has negative repercussions for women, minors, and the social fabric. They also stated that they address suspicions of violence or exploitation against women and minors, coordinating with social welfare services when necessary. The police affirmed their commitment to continuing operations against polygamy and related offenses.