Operation Details
Guatemalan officials conducted a raid on the Lev Tahor sect's compound, rescuing at least 160 children and adolescents, alongside 40 women, amid allegations of abuse including human trafficking and forced pregnancies.
The operation, involving around 480 police officers, soldiers, and psychologists, was prompted by four minors escaping and alerting authorities. It uncovered potential evidence of child pornography and buried human remains.
Sect's Background and Response
Lev Tahor, known for its austere practices and controversial beliefs, has faced allegations of child exploitation, forced marriages, and abuse across various countries, including , the , and .
The Jewish Community of Guatemala distanced itself from Lev Tahor, urging international cooperation to protect the rights of those at risk, while the sect's leaders have accused Guatemalan authorities of persecution.