Reply To: Trial for Three Boys in Japan on Friday!

I am sorry to post this in this thread in addition to the other one (3 Boys in Japan), but the same old rumors will cause tzuris if not squashed now.

From: Defense Strategy Team 3 Bochurim in Tokyo

Sent: 2009-01-04 22:38

Subject: UPDATE on the welfare of the three Yeshiva boys detained in Tokyo, Japan

Dear All,

Further to an email that has been widely circulated, claiming that the

three unfortunate Yeshiva bochurim detained in Tokyo, Japan are being

maltreated, allow me to clarify the following:

As a community activist involved in this specific case since it

transpired, and a member of the vaad hapoel working under the

directives of the Rabbinical advisory board, amongst them Rabbi Dayan

C.Y.D. Weis of Antwerp & Rabbi M. Shafran of Bene Beraq, I can confirm

that to the contrary, the boys with whom we have been entrusted to

steer their defense, are in fact being cared for in the best possible

manner.

After much diplomatic effort, improvements to their kosher dietary

allowances have recently been accomplished.

As initiated & lobbied by the askonim, regular medical check-ups are

carried out upon the request of our lawyers.

The boys are visited regularly by Rabbis & askonim both stationed

locally and who fly in especially to maintain their spirits & good

morale.

Our efforts at this time are concentrated on preparation of the legal

defense for the pending trial. Several pre-trials have shown some

glimmer of hope, & it is only right to share this information with all

who are concerned about their welfare.

It is nevertheless of paramount importance that we pray for the

continued success of the defense council & askonim; & pray for the

positive outcome to this case.

Please be persistent in davenning for all three bochurim:

Yaakov Yosef Ben Raizel

Yoel Zeev Ben Mirel Risa Chava

and Yosef ben Itta Rivka.

Any circulation of unfounded false rumors regarding the welfare of the

detainees is detrimental to the legal procedure, destabilizes the good

working relationship with the Japanese authorities, distracts the

lawyers & devoted askonim from their time consuming & tedious work,

and causes the uninformed to lose hope and relent from constant

davenning on the boys behalf.

May I sign off with a blessing of good tidings to all.

The Vaad Hapoel