Rape under the guise of a massage – a shocking case in Bat Yam

The Tel Aviv District Prosecutor's Office has filed an indictment against 51-year-old Rafael Shraga, a resident of Bat Yam, accused of raping a 19-year-old woman with mental disabilities in a hotel. The suspect allegedly posed as a masseur, lured the victim to the hotel, and committed violent acts. A rescue call from relatives helped uncover the crime.

The Tel Aviv District Prosecutor's Office has submitted a criminal case to the court against 51-year-old Rafael Shraga of Bat Yam. He is charged with aggravated rape, indecent acts, and other serious offenses. The victim is a 19-year-old woman with mental disabilities. According to the investigation, the accused met the victim at an Aroma cafe, introducing himself as a 28-year-old masseur named Shlomo. He offered her a 'relaxing treatment' and, despite her initial refusal, persuaded her to accompany him—first to Tiberias and then to a hotel in central Israel. The woman believed she was going for a massage session. In the hotel room, the perpetrator committed a series of violent acts: repeatedly raping the victim, striking her in the face, and causing physical pain. When worried relatives began calling, the accused ordered her not to answer, but she managed to pick up the phone. Her relatives realized from her voice that something was wrong and immediately called the police. The attacker fled the hotel. Defense attorney Gil Friedman stated that his client categorically denies all charges and insists on mutual consent.