Rabbi Menachem Yaveh, 51, was arrested this week on suspicion of leading a cult and sexually abusing underage boys. Yaveh is a father of 17 and follower of the controversial Rabbi Eliezer Berland (who was convicted of sexual offenses in 2016). He now faces serious allegations from at least four former students who have filed police complaints against him.
The accusations paint a disturbing picture of manipulation and exploitation. One witness, who chose to be identified only as Mordechai, described a pattern of grooming and abuse that lasted for years. "He kept warning me, 'You know you mustn't tell this to anyone in your life because something could happen to you,'" Mordechai recounted. He alleges that Yaveh used religious teachings to justify his actions, leaving his victims confused and ashamed.
Another former student, Tzachi Zeitlin, spoke of being "brainwashed" through "long hours of endless talking that creates dependency." Zeitlin claims that Yaveh would "start with the most serious sexual assaults, in every form and way."
An additional former student accused Yaveh, "You ruined my life on the day I realized that you were not righteous and used me purely for your personal interest."
The allegations suggest a systematic approach to targeting vulnerable youth. According to one witness, Yaveh specifically sought out 13-year-old boys, believing they were more malleable. "At that age, they don't have any opinions," the witness stated, quoting Yaveh's alleged reasoning.
Witnesses describe a cult-like atmosphere where Yaveh allegedly isolated his followers from their families and built an entire community around himself.
As the investigation continues, the police have stated their commitment to pursuing the case with "required professionalism." Meanwhile, Yaveh has refused to comment on the allegations, while his wife maintains his innocence, calling him "a righteous man" who is being slandered.
* Ynet News contributed to this article.