A dramatic standoff unfolded in Guatemala on Sunday as members of the Jewish sect Lev Tahor attempted to recapture 160 children rescued from their farm on Friday. The children were taken into care amid allegations of serious sexual offenses and abuse within the sect.
According to Interior Minister Francisco Jimenez, the children were being abused by a member of the sect. However, sect members claim they are being persecuted by Guatemalan authorities.
The Lev Tahor sect, known for its extremist practices, advocates for child marriage and imposes harsh punishments on its followers. Women and girls as young as three are required to wear robes that completely cover their bodies.
On Sunday, about 100 sect members gathered outside the care center where the children were being held, demanding their return. Some members forced open the gate and attempted to abduct the children, but were thwarted by authorities.
Prosecutors have expressed concerns about “forced pregnancy, mistreatment of minors, and rape” within the sect. The Jewish Community of Guatemala has disowned the sect, describing it as “foreign” to its organization and expressing support for the authorities’ investigation.
The Lev Tahor community is estimated to comprise around 50 families residing in Guatemala, the US, Canada, and other countries. The sect has been under investigation in several countries for serious sexual offenses.
