Behind the ordinary appearance of Jerusalem’s streets, a hidden sex trade network operated for months. According to police suspicions, a couple from northern Israel established a system to recruit women in Brazil, arrange their entry into the country, and place them in prostitution in Jerusalem and other locations nationwide.
The women were allegedly recruited through false promises of legal employment and stable living conditions. After arriving in Israel, they reportedly found themselves trapped in a controlled prostitution network, fully dependent on those managing their work and income. Investigators say the operation was systematic and generated significant profits.
Where Do Women in Jerusalem’s Sex Trade Come From?
According to the investigation, most of the recruitment focused on South America, particularly Brazil, where women facing economic hardship were targeted. Suspects maintained direct contact, assisted with travel arrangements, and supervised their arrival in Israel.
Once in Jerusalem, the women were placed in designated apartments and venues for prostitution, under close supervision and financial control. Sources familiar with the case say many victims struggle to leave the cycle of exploitation due to debts, threats of deportation, and lack of social support.
The suspects were arrested in recent days and brought in for questioning. Police have requested an extension of their detention at the Jerusalem Magistrate’s Court to continue the investigation.
Jerusalem District Police said they will “continue to act decisively against human trafficking and the exploitation of women, using all available tools to bring offenders to justice and protect human dignity.”
