A violent clash took place in Guatemala City when, as per local law enforcement, members of the Lev Tahor cult sprayed police officers with pepper spray while resisting an eviction from social service centers.
At least four officers sustained injuries and were transported to Roosevelt Hospital and a police medical facility for treatment.
The confrontation unfolded as a significant number of police arrived to enforce a court-issued order to remove cult members who had barricaded themselves outside the welfare centers.
The disturbances come amidst a growing controversy surrounding the rescue operation, in which Guatemalan authorities freed over 200 women and children from the cult’s compound, with most of the minors involved ranging in age from 5 to 13. The cult members are under suspicion of involvement in human trafficking, forced marriages, and child abuse. In response, a specialized medical center has been set up, operating around the clock to care for the rescued individuals.
A key breakthrough occurred over the weekend when Jonathan Emmanuel Cardona Castillo, a high-ranking member of the group, was apprehended in El Salvador. Interpol had issued a “red notice” along with an international arrest warrant for his capture.
In another development, Guatemala’s Attorney General Consuelo Porras met with Israeli Ambassador Alon Lavi and a visiting Israeli delegation this week.
During their discussions, they agreed to conduct DNA testing to help identify the children and their biological parents, as many of them lack official identification. Additionally, the Israeli Welfare Ministry sent a specialized team to assist in providing care and support for the victims and their families.

{Matzav.com}