Israeli Police Locate Mally and Liel Yehalomi in Argentina, Motive for Escape Remains Unclear

Israeli police confirmed on Saturday that Mally and Liel Yehalomi were found safe in Buenos Aires, Argentina, after an extensive international search. The two were discovered on a bus and subsequently questioned by local authorities, who found no criminal suspicion related to their disappearance and released them. Israeli investigators continue probing the case domestically, as the motive behind their departure remains unknown.

The investigation revealed that the Yehalomis planned their escape meticulously, purchasing alternative phones and creating a prearranged route. Their journey began in the Czech Republic, where phones can be bought without ID, then proceeded to Vienna, where they allegedly filmed videos intended for family but sent them only after moving on, likely to Germany. This was apparently done to create the false impression they were still in Vienna. From Germany, they flew to Argentina, where Israeli police officer Walter Alejandro Kogan, stationed in South America, located them.

Authorities believe the Yehalomis intended to continue beyond Buenos Aires to another undisclosed destination, though it is unclear if they proceeded further. The search involved around 300 investigators working around the clock, led by the Israeli police’s Lahav 433 unit and intelligence division, with international cooperation from Europol and other foreign police agencies. Police Chief Major General Danni Levi directed the operation, which included multiple command centers both in Israel and abroad.

The Yehalomi family expressed immense relief at their safe recovery and thanked the Israeli public, police, the Vienna consulate, and rescue volunteers. They also announced that the approximately 260,000 shekels raised through a crowdfunding campaign would be returned to donors. Despite the successful location of Mally and Liel, Israeli police continue investigating to understand the reasons behind their disappearance and escape.