Police raid in the Negev reveals: 3 suspects, 15 women and 67 children

Israel Police raided a residential compound in Bir Hadaj in the Negev and arrested five suspects on polygamy charges. During the search, marriage documents, wedding photos and phones were seized. The three main suspects have 15 wives and 67 children. The investigation has been transferred to the prosecution for further review.

Israel Police raided a residential compound in the town of Bir Hadaj in the Negev yesterday, following intelligence information about five suspects involved in polygamy. Officers collected marriage documents, wedding photos and phones, which will be examined as the investigation continues. Five suspects were arrested at the compound, including a 25-year-old man suspected of being married to three women and father to eight children, and a 32-year-old man suspected of being married to three women and father to nine children. In total, the three main suspects have 15 wives and 67 children. During the operation, ten additional suspects involved in arranging the marriages were detained for questioning. The investigation will be transferred to the prosecution for review of further legal proceedings. The polygamy unit of the Southern District, established about two years ago to focus on the phenomenon, took part in the search and arrest operations. Police say this is a harmful and serious phenomenon with wide-ranging consequences, including harm to women, minors, and the family and community fabric.