Three daycare assistants in Ra’anana were arrested on suspicion of abusing toddlers after an investigation that began when an approximately 11-month-old child was brought to Meir Medical Center with an injury to his ear.

The incident prompted investigators from the Kfar Saba Police Station to open a covert investigation into the daycare.

As investigators examined evidence from the facility, suspicions emerged that the child's injury may not have been an isolated incident. Authorities said the investigation uncovered suspected acts of violence involving several toddlers.

According to police, the assistants are suspected of forcibly lifting toddlers and throwing them to the floor, pulling children by their ears and throwing objects at them.

Investigators used technological means and documentation from inside the daycare as part of the investigation. After police said an evidentiary basis had been established, the investigation became overt and the three assistants were arrested.

The suspects are Ra’anana residents in their 30s and 50s.

A court subsequently extended their detention as the investigation continued. The identities of the suspects and the name of the daycare are under a publication ban.

The allegations remain under investigation, and no determination of guilt has been made.