Nov. 25 (UPI) -- Colombian authorities said 17 minors linked to the ultra-Orthodox Jewish sect Lev Tahor were rescued during an inspection at a hotel in the country's northwest.
The minors, citizens of Guatemala, the United States and Canada, were found during a joint operation involving Migración Colombia, the military and intelligence units. All were placed in the custody of the Colombian Institute for Family Welfare.
Five of the minors had Interpol yellow notices related to disappearances or suspected kidnappings. The alerts were issued after they entered Colombia, preventing authorities from detecting the situation earlier.
Migración Colombia detained nine adults who were traveling with the minors. Although they do not face arrest warrants in Colombia, the agency is reviewing administrative proceedings that could lead to their expulsion.
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