Colombian child welfare officials have freed 17 minors from the ultra-Orthodox Jewish sect Lev Tahor after a police raid on a remote jungle compound near Santa Marta, where 26 adults were detained on suspicion of abuse and neglect.
The operation occurred in late November 2025 in the rural Guachaca area of Magdalena department. Authorities from the Colombian Institute of Family Welfare, backed by national police, acted on reports highlighting concerns over the children’s living conditions and treatment within the insular community.
Inspectors reported finding the minors in makeshift accommodation with inadequate hygiene, nutrition, and medical care. Allegations include forced child labour, early marriages, and physical discipline. The rescued children, ranging from infants to adolescents, hold passports from several countries, including Israel, the United States, Guatemala, and Canada.
ICBF Director Astrid Cáceres outlined the situation, stating: “The minors were living in precarious conditions with clear signs of physical and emotional neglect.” Immediate health checks and psychological support were provided, with the children now in temporary state care pending longer-term arrangements.
Lev Tahor has faced similar interventions elsewhere. After child protection probes in Canada prompted a departure in 2013, the group settled in Guatemala until a 2022 raid liberated dozens of minors. Subsequent relocations brought some members to Colombia.
A former member, speaking anonymously, explained the pattern: “Whenever authorities approach, the leaders relocate the entire community to evade justice.” Observers describe the sect as enforcing extreme isolation and rigid control, particularly over young members.
The group has rejected the claims, insisting the raid amounts to persecution for their devout practices. Leaders maintain that marriages and discipline follow traditional Jewish law and occur with family consent.
Diplomatic channels are active. An Israeli Foreign Ministry spokesperson confirmed: “Israel is in close contact with Colombian authorities to guarantee the welfare of any Israeli children involved.” Coordination extends to the United States and Guatemala for potential repatriation.
Migration officials are reviewing the adults’ status, many of whom entered on tourist visas now expired. Deportation proceedings may follow while child welfare teams prioritise reuniting minors with relatives outside the sect where appropriate.
Written by Were Kelly
Sources: Associated Press, The Times of Israel, Reuters, Jerusalem Post, Colombian Institute of Family Welfare statements.
