Brazen Theft in Beit Shemesh: Menorah Stolen by “Alte Zachen” Collectors in Alarming Footage

Targeting Sacred Traditions

The incident occurred in broad daylight in a residential neighborhood of Beit Shemesh, a city known for its large and vibrant Jewish community. The footage shows a white van, commonly used by "Alte Zachen" collectors who travel through neighborhoods to buy and collect old furniture or unwanted household items, pulling up near a home.

While these collectors typically search for scrap metal or discarded appliances, the video reveals a far more sinister intent. One of the men is seen exiting the vehicle and heading directly toward a box where a menorah was being kept. Instead of inquiring about discarded items, the individual is seen reaching into the box, grabbing the religious object, and quickly returning to the van before speeding off.

A Pattern of Disrespect

The theft of a menorah, especially during the winter season when the item holds deep spiritual significance during the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah, has caused a wave of indignation across the community. This was not a case of mistaking trash for treasure, as the footage clearly shows the perpetrator bypassing other larger items to specifically target the religious object as well as knowing exactly where to look suggesting this may have been premeditated.

Community members have pointed out that this act feels like a calculated strike against Jewish religious life. With the ongoing war against Hamas terrorists, tensions remain high, and the targeting of personal religious items is being viewed by many as more than just a petty crime. Local residents expressed that they feel a sense of violation, noting that their homes and sacred objects should be safe from those who are permitted to enter their neighborhoods for work.

Police Investigation Underway

The clear footage, which captures both the act and the vehicle involved, has been handed over to the Israel Police. Authorities in Beit Shemesh are currently reviewing the video to identify the suspects and the license plate of the van.

While "Alte Zachen" collectors are a common sight in Israeli cities, this incident has prompted calls for increased vigilance and stricter oversight of the independent contractors who frequent residential streets. For the victims, the loss of the menorah is not about its monetary value, but about the blatant disrespect shown to a symbol of light and faith. Police are investigating the incident as a targeted theft, and community leaders are urging anyone with further information to come forward to ensure these individuals are held accountable.