Israeli police arrested Rabbi Yosef Shoveli on May 7, 2026, following a covert investigation into allegations of serious sexual offenses. Authorities stated that the investigation began after multiple complaints were received. Police also appealed for additional individuals with relevant information or allegations to contact law enforcement as the investigation continued.
The case followed public warnings issued by the Israeli Center for Cult Victims, which reported collecting testimonies from former members and relatives concerning a religious group allegedly led by Shoveli. According to the organization, witnesses described patterns of control over members' personal lives, restrictions on family relationships, financial and personal dependence, and an atmosphere of fear. Several testimonies also alleged sexual abuse that was presented to victims as part of a spiritual process. The organization stated that the earliest reported incidents dated to 2011.
According to published reports, some former members alleged that important personal decisions, including family matters, required the approval of the group's leader. Additional accounts described unpaid work performed for the group and increasing isolation from relatives. These allegations formed part of the information that became public before the arrest.
At the time of the arrest, the allegations had not been adjudicated in court. The investigation remained ongoing, and judicial proceedings were expected to determine whether formal charges would follow. Under Israeli law, criminal allegations remain unproven unless established through the legal process.
