Malaysian Firm Investigated for Child Abuse, Money Laundering

Malaysian authorities have launched a major investigation into Islamic conglomerate Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings (GISB) following allegations of child abuse, neglect, money laundering, and religious offenses. The case came to light after police raids on 20 premises allegedly operated by the firm last week.

Inspector-General of Police Razarudin Husain announced that 96 bank accounts linked to GISB, with a total value of approximately $135,866.89, have been frozen under anti-money laundering laws. Four of these accounts were ordered to be closed. Additionally, eight motor vehicles belonging to the firm have been seized.

During the raids, codenamed "Op Global," authorities rescued 402 children and youths from charity homes allegedly run by GISB. Health screenings of 392 of these children revealed disturbing signs of physical and emotional abuse. Many showed old and new injuries consistent with sexual and physical abuse, as well as indications of emotional trauma and stunted growth. Police reported that 13 of the children had been sodomized.

The investigation has uncovered evidence of various criminal elements, including physical and emotional abuse, child grooming, child labor and exploitation, neglect, and malnutrition. Some children under 18 were allegedly forced to work selling goods.

The Department of Social Welfare has issued temporary custody orders for 149 children aged between one and 10, in accordance with Section 25 (2) of the Child Act 2001. These children have been moved to four safe shelters, while the remaining 243 individuals are still at the police training center (Pulapol) in Kuala Lumpur, awaiting transfer to temporary care centers.

The case has drawn attention from various government agencies, including the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia and the Ministry of Health.

The case has shocked the nation.