Israeli Police Uncover Preplanned Disappearance of Mother and Daughter Traveling to South America

Israeli police revealed that a recent disappearance of a mother, Mally, and her daughter, Liel Yahalomi, was likely premeditated. Days before their flight to Prague, Liel sent a message to her mother expressing support and willingness to go anywhere with her, which investigators consider a key indication of their planned departure. Authorities believe financial distress motivated their decision, with the close mother-daughter relationship playing a significant role in their joint exit from Israel.

Early in the investigation, police explored whether Mally's employment at a bank was linked to the disappearance, but no evidence of theft or embezzlement was found. However, it was discovered that Mally withdrew approximately 14,000 euros in cash before leaving, suggesting an intention not to return shortly. Investigators are also examining whether money was taken from the grandmother and if she was aware of the plan.

Further evidence of preparation includes deletion of apps and data from their phones and use of photos taken in Vienna to mislead others into thinking they were still in Europe after leaving. Vienna served as a transit hub due to its extensive transport connections. Mally also attempted to contact the Israeli consulate in Vienna, though the purpose remains unclear.

Following intelligence that the pair traveled to South America, Israeli police dispatched representative Walter Kogan from Mexico to Argentina. They learned the women arrived in Buenos Aires and continued by bus to another destination. Police expressed concern that moving to countries with limited law enforcement cooperation could hinder locating them. Cooperation with European and South American authorities has been ongoing.

Upon locating the women, Israeli officials met with them in Argentina with local authorities' consent to assess their condition and understand their arrival circumstances. However, Israeli police have no independent investigative authority there, so the meeting was not a formal interrogation.