A synagogue in the largely ultra-Orthodox town Rechasim, near Haifa, that was operating against Health Ministry regulations was exposed in a sting operation on Friday.
The worshippers at the synagogue had organized secret group prayers, which have been banned due to the coronavirus epidemic. The synagogue even went so far as to appoint lookouts to alert them when police or inspectors neared the premises.
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On Friday, the chief of the Zvulun District Police and one of his detectives dressed as haredim, entered the synagogue, and even joined the prayers.
After confirming that the gathering violated government regulations, the police identified themselves, detained everyone present, and handed out fines that totaled 17,500 shekels ($4,800). An hour after the sting, police thwarted yet another attempt by worshippers to re-open the synagogue.
According to a statement from the Zvulun District police, "This year, community relations with the residents of Rechasim and the local authority have been excellent. In these complicated times, police in the community are in close contact and taking appropriate measures to keep the local population informed about Health Ministry regulations to stop the spread of coronavirus for the sake of the public."
"Along with explanatory and preventative measures, the police are enforcing public health orders that prohibit public gatherings and movement, including public group prayer," the police said.
