Malaysian authorities have rescued more than 400 children suspected of being sexually abused at charity homes run by a prominent Islamic business organization with links to a banned religious sect. The children, aged between one and 17, were rescued during coordinated raids on 20 premises across two Malaysian states, resulting in the arrest of 171 adults, including Islamic religious teachers.
The raids were conducted after reports were filed alleging neglect, abuse, sexual harassment, and molestation at the charity homes operated by Global Ikhwan Services and Business (GISB). GISB has denied the sexual abuse allegations, stating that it does not manage the charity homes and will file a police report demanding an investigation.
Preliminary police investigations have found that the rescued minors were children of Malaysian GISB employees, sent to the homes shortly after birth, and subjected to multiple forms of abuse, including sodomy by adult guardians. The victims were allegedly taught to sodomize other children at the homes.
GISB has been linked to the now-defunct Al-Arqam religious sect, banned by the Malaysian government in 1994. The firm has acknowledged the link but now describes itself as an Islamic conglomerate based on Muslim practices.
The children will undergo health screening and documentation, and the case is being investigated under laws covering sexual offenses against children and human trafficking. Authorities have also alleged that the organization used the children and religious sentiments to gain public sympathy and raise funds.
The rescue operation and subsequent arrests have sent shockwaves through Malaysia, highlighting concerns about child abuse and exploitation in religious institutions. The case is ongoing, with further investigations and legal proceedings expected.
