Members of the Lev Tahor community detained in Colombia, children rescued

The authorities of Colombia reported on an operation during which members of the radical religious community Lev Tahor were detained and a group of minors was rescued. The statement was released by law enforcement agencies after the completion of coordinated actions aimed at ensuring the safety of children and stopping activities related to violations of the country’s legislation. During the operation, seventeen minors were identified who were under the control of members of the community. Law enforcement officials clarified that five of them had active Interpol Yellow Notices. Such notices are used in cases where a child is missing or is at risk, and therefore the discovery of these minors became an important element of international cooperation.

Representatives of law enforcement bodies noted that the operation was carried out in coordination with international partners, including Interpol units. This made it possible to identify some of the children and confirm that they were listed as missing in other countries. As a result, the actions of the Colombian authorities restored contact between the minors and the state services responsible for their protection. According to investigative bodies, the detained adults are linked to the activities of the religious group, which has previously appeared in various international investigations. The investigation is now clarifying the circumstances of the children’s stay in the community, their route of movement, and possible violations of international and national norms. Authorities emphasized that the collection of information necessary for transferring materials to the competent authorities of the states that submitted requests through Interpol is ongoing.

The minors are currently under the protection of Colombian services, where they are provided with the necessary assistance. It is reported that the children have been placed in specialized facilities that ensure safety, medical examinations, and psychological support. State agencies are conducting additional checks aimed at establishing the full range of circumstances related to their time in the group. Official representatives also noted that cooperation on this case will continue in accordance with international agreements. The countries that submitted the missing person notices will have access to the materials and will be able to participate in further processes related to establishing the legal status of the children and arranging their return.

Colombian investigative bodies reported that new information is expected soon, which may expand the number of persons involved in the case. It is clarified that inspections are being conducted at the residences of group members, their movements, and possible contacts. Based on this information, the investigation plans to build a complete picture of the events. Law enforcement officials emphasize that their actions were aimed exclusively at protecting minors and stopping activities that contradict the law. The operation is ongoing, and its further stages will depend on the results of current procedures and international cooperation. State authorities stated that the safety of children remains the top priority and will be ensured until all legal processes related to their status and further placement are completed.