Here is a notice that my husband received from the Rabbonim who are working on the case.
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 Toyo, 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