Police: "We assume Meli and Liel Yaalomi are alive, but the motive remains unclear"
The investigation into the disappearance of two Israelis in Vienna continues; contact was lost nearly a week ago, and there are no leads regarding their fate. "No line of investigation is ruled out," a senior police official stated, noting that many questions remain. A gag order on the case will be lifted as the situation clarifies.
The investigation into the disappearance of Meli and Liel Yaalomi continues as police persist in their efforts to locate the two Israelis who went missing in Vienna nearly a week ago. A senior official involved in the investigation stated on Thursday evening that the working assumption is that both women are alive and that all lines of inquiry are being pursued.
The investigation is being conducted by a joint team from the Vienna Police and the Economic Unit of Lahav 433 of the Israel Police. Investigators have yet to determine how the two disappeared without a trace, as no digital footprints have been recovered.
"Our starting point is that they are alive. We have no idea what the motive is. We are checking if this event was planned—such as an escape from the country—or if it was a criminal act by a local gang," the official explained.
He added that the possibility of a nationalistic motive is also being examined. "Nothing is ruled out; everything is being checked, and there are many question marks." Meanwhile, the court has approved a police request for a gag order on the details of the investigation to prevent leaks that could compromise the case.
Meli and Liel were last seen in Vienna on Friday. Family members have provided testimony to Lahav investigators and shared all information in their possession. The family demands that the possibility of a nationalistic incident remain a focus of the investigation until the two are located.
Bank of Jerusalem Statement
Earlier today, the Bank of Jerusalem sent an email to customers clarifying that, contrary to rumors, there is no concern regarding the embezzlement of client funds by Meli Yaalomi, an employee of the bank. While the bank's shares dropped at the opening of the stock exchange due to the news, some of the losses were recovered during the trading day.
"Following a thorough and in-depth check, we wish to clarify unequivocally that there is no fear of embezzlement of customer funds at the Bank of Jerusalem," the bank stated. "Customer funds are safe, protected, and managed in accordance with the law and mandatory control procedures. The bank is operating as usual, and all account activity is being carried out normally."
