Thursday, 12 September 2024
Reported by: NS Ramli
In a shocking operation, Malaysian police have rescued 402 children from nearly 20 welfare homes in Selangor and Negeri Sembilan, where they were allegedly subjected to severe abuse. The raids, conducted from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. today, targeted facilities believed to be operated by Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings (GISBH).
Inspector-General of Police Razarudin Husain reported that the operation, known as "Op Global," led to the arrest of 171 individuals connected to the welfare homes.
The raids were prompted by a police report filed on September 2, which detailed allegations of child abandonment, sexual assault, and harassment within these homes. Razarudin disclosed at a press conference in Kuantan that the rescued children ranged in age from seven months to 17 years. The operation involved 705 police officers and personnel, supported by 287 workers from the Welfare Department, Health Ministry, and Chemistry Department.
GISBH, an organization reportedly founded by former members of the banned Al-Arqam group, has consistently denied any links to the controversial religious cult. However, Razarudin claimed that the group's modus operandi included the disturbing practice of instructing children on how to commit sodomy on one another. The children were reportedly not only victims of such abuse but were also forced to witness other children undergoing similar ordeals.
The police investigation revealed that some of the children had been denied medical care, leading to severe health issues. Additionally, the welfare home warden was accused of using heated tools to inflict physical harm on the children under the guise of Islamic medicinal practices.
GISBH has been implicated under several laws, including the Child Act 2001, the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017, and the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007. In response to the allegations, GISBH issued a statement vehemently denying any involvement in child exploitation. The organization described the claims as defamatory and malicious, asserting their commitment to legal and ethical standards. GISBH also expressed a willingness to cooperate fully with the authorities to resolve the issue.
The harrowing details of the operation have drawn widespread condemnation and highlighted the urgent need for thorough investigations and protection for vulnerable children in similar institutions.
Source: MALAYSIAKINI
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