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A Norwegian man vandalized the Chabad House in Kathmandu late Saturday night, just days after thousands of Israelis and Jews gathered there for what is believed to be the world’s largest Passover Seder. No injuries were reported, but the building sustained extensive damage.
According to initial reports, the man, approximately 30 years old, climbed across nearby rooftops before entering the Chabad center in the heart of Nepal's capital. Once inside, he ransacked the synagogue, breaking tables, chairs and glass fixtures while shouting. Authorities suspect the incident may have been a hate crime.
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Norwegian man goes berserk at Kathmandu Jewish outreach center, leaving extensive damage
(Video: Tirta Taffan)
Local police responded quickly and arrested the suspect, who remains in custody under investigation. The Israeli Embassy in Nepal is closely monitoring the case.
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In the wake of the incident, security has been increased at the Chabad House and at the home of Chabad emissaries Rabbi Chezki and Chani Lifshitz, who have led Jewish outreach efforts in Nepal for more than 20 years. The couple, who have six children and also adopted a local street child, have made the Kathmandu Chabad House a key hub for Israeli travelers and Jewish visitors.
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Norwegian man goes berserk at Kathmandu Jewish outreach center, leaving extensive damage
(Photo: Tirta Taffan)
Despite the attack, daily operations at the Chabad center have resumed, and it continues to host hundreds of travelers each day.
Just a week earlier, the Lifshitzes hosted more than 2,500 backpackers for a Seder in Kathmandu, marking one of the largest Jewish holiday gatherings held anywhere in the world.