The Malaysian police have announced the arrest of hundreds of suspects in connection with an investigation into child abuse at care homes operated by an Islamic conglomerate. In what is considered the most severe case of its kind in the country in recent decades, authorities arrested 355 individuals, including religious teachers and caregivers, and rescued over 400 children.
The investigation centers on the Global Ikhwan Service and Business (GISB) group, which has faced controversy due to its ties to the banned Al Arqam sect. Police arrested GISB leader Nasiruddin Ali along with 30 other group members following raids on numerous premises, including charity homes, businesses, and religious schools.
Malaysia's police chief, Razarudin Husain, revealed that authorities had frozen 96 accounts linked to the group, containing approximately $124,000, and seized eight vehicles. Initially, GISB denied the allegations, claiming they did not operate the care homes searched in Selangor and Negeri Sembilan states. However, in a video posted on the company's Facebook page, CEO Nasiruddin acknowledged "one or two sodomy cases" at the shelters but denied widespread abuse.
Medical screenings indicate that at least 13 children were victims of sexual abuse. The case has raised concerns about the welfare of children in care facilities and the regulation of charitable organizations in Malaysia. The Al Arqam sect was banned in 1994 for deviant teachings, and GISB members established the "Obedient Wives Club" in 2011, advocating for women to be "whores in bed" to prevent their husbands from straying.
According to its website, GISB describes itself as an Islamic company that operates businesses ranging from supermarkets to restaurants in several countries, including Indonesia, France, and the United Kingdom. Religious authorities in Selangor state are closely monitoring GISB's activities. Police believe the 402 minors in the care homes were all children of GISB members.
