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THE head of a religious learning centre in Kelantan, known publicly as 'Abuya', is expected to face six additional charges related to the sexual abuse of teenage boys, bringing the total number of allegations against him to fifteen.
Kelantan Police Chief, Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat, confirmed the 46-year-old suspect will be brought before the Sessions Court once investigations into the latest complaints are completed and prosecutorial directives are received.
“To date, he has already been charged with seven counts at the Pasir Mas Sessions Court last week, involving sexual assault against a male student and possession of pornographic material,” he said during a press conference following the Kelantan police contingent’s monthly assembly on Sunday.
In addition, the suspect was charged earlier this week with two more offences at the Kuala Terengganu Sessions Court, concerning similar acts committed against a 14-year-old boy.
According to Datuk Mohd Yusoff, the accused is currently out on bail, with RM45,000 posted for the Kelantan charges and RM18,000 for the Terengganu case.
“Most recently, police re-arrested the suspect after receiving a new complaint from another teenage victim at the same location. Six further charges are expected to follow in the near future,” he said.
The investigation is being conducted under the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017, which carries penalties of up to 20 years’ imprisonment and whipping upon conviction.
The suspect, who is said to have significant influence among local business founders and an online following, had reportedly positioned himself as a respected religious figure within the community.
Authorities are continuing to urge other potential victims to come forward as the case unfolds. - September 21, 2025
