KUALA LUMPUR – Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings Sdn Bhd (GISB Holdings) has denied it operates the welfare homes in Selangor and Negeri Sembilan raided by authorities in a recent major operation.
The denial comes despite Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain yesterday confirming that the 20 welfare homes are linked to GISB Holdings, which is involved in various businesses locally and overseas.
Police had rescued 402 children aged between one and 17 years from the care centers, where they were believed to have been victims of physical and sexual abuse.
In a statement today, GISB Holdings said it is “clear” the welfare homes in question are not under its management, as it is the company’s policy not to plan and engage in matters which are against Islamic rules and national laws.
It also rubbished claims that children under its care were sodomised and taught to sexually assault others, calling these allegations “serious and malicious” and aimed at creating a negative perception of the company.
“We will be lodging a police report to push for an investigation (so that) those involved will face justice. We will not hesitate to take legal action against anyone who has intentionally and maliciously smeared our good name,” it added.
Yesterday, Razarudin said police investigations found that the homes’ modus operandi was to educate the children before they were sodomized by caretakers, who would also force them to sodomise other children at the centers.
The 402 children rescued, consisting 201 boys and 201 girls, were allegedly punished with heated metal objects and inappropriate touching under the guise of religious medical treatment, Razarudin said.
The nation’s top cop added that religious sentiments were used to garner sympathy in order for the homes to secure donations.
A total of 171 people, including teaching staff, hostel wardens, and study centre managers, were also arrested in the operation conducted by the Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department’s Anti-Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling Division.
GISB Holdings’ officials are also reportedly scheduled to meet the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) over claims that the company was involved with deviant teachings related to the banned Al-Arqam sect.
Last night, GISB Holdings denied accusations of its involvement in child labour, asserting that the claim is prejudiced and defamatory, with malicious intent to create a negative perception of the company. – September 12, 2024