Worshippers discover Torah scrolls stolen during Bar Mitzvah
Between 10 and 12 Torah scrolls were stolen overnight from a Jewish community center in Levallois-Perret, France. The theft was discovered this morning during a Bar Mitzvah ceremony when the Holy Ark was found empty.
Overnight between Sunday and Monday, between 10 and 12 Torah scrolls were stolen from the Jewish community center in Levallois-Perret, France. The theft was discovered this morning during a Bar Mitzvah ceremony held at the synagogue, when the Holy Ark was opened and, to the astonishment of the worshippers, it was found to be empty.
According to initial findings, two masked suspects broke into the premises, likely entering through the roof before quickly removing the scrolls. Bomb disposal experts called to the scene completed a sweep of the synagogue and ruled out the presence of explosives.
Immediately upon discovering the incident, personnel from the SPCJ (Service de Protection de la Communauté Juive) conducted a thorough inspection of the building to ensure there was no further threat, in accordance with standard safety protocols. The investigation is ongoing; local police are collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing security footage. Additionally, a vehicle suspected of being connected to the incident has been located.
According to the SPCJ's assessment, the suspects acted in a planned and targeted manner, suggesting they conducted prior reconnaissance and studied access routes. Investigators are examining all lines of inquiry, including the possibility that the suspects had prior knowledge of the building's layout.
