Malaysian police rescue 187 more children as sex abuse probe of Islamic group deepens

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Police Rescue 187 More Children Linked to Alleged Sexual Assault Case

Malaysian police announced on Monday that they have rescued 187 additional children and conducted raids across the country in connection with an Islamic business group under investigation for alleged sexual assault of children. The police operation targeted welfare homes associated with Global Ikhwan Services and Business (GISB) Holdings. Shocking online videos showed a boy being caned and another child being stepped on, prompting the rescue mission.

Rescue Operation and Arrests

1. A total of 572 children under the age of 18 have been rescued since the GISB case emerged.
2. Among the children rescued, 59 were under the age of 5.
3. 156 additional suspects have been arrested for investigation.

Allegations of Abuse

• Police suspect that some children were sodomized and taught to sexually abuse each other.
• Medical screenings have confirmed that at least 13 teenagers were sodomized, and 172 children suffered long-term physical and emotional injuries.

Background of the Case

The victims are primarily children of GISB employees who have been placed in these homes since infancy. They are believed to have been indoctrinated from a young age to be loyal to the group. The increased police action against GISB was prompted by a call from the country’s king for a swift investigation and action in this shocking case.

GISB, an organization promoting an Islamic way of life, owns various businesses such as mini-markets, bakeries, restaurants, and pharmacies in Malaysia and abroad. It traces its roots back to the Al Arqam Islamic sect, which was declared heretical and banned by the government in 1994.

Arrests and Investigation

Last week, police detained members of GISB’s top management, including CEO Nasiruddin Mohamad Ali, two of his wives, and two of his children. Additionally, family members of the late Ashaari Mohamad, who previously headed Al Arqam, were also arrested. While Nasiruddin admitted to isolated cases of sodomy, he denied any widespread abuse.

According to National Police Chief Razarudin Husain, there are approximately 10,000 employees and followers of GISB who are believed to be practicing the teachings of Al Arqam. Islamic authorities are conducting their own investigation into the matter.

Police Raids and Asset Freezing

As part of the operation, police have conducted raids on 280 locations across Malaysia associated with GISB. However, most of these locations were found to be vacant. In 59 of the raided locations, police seized Islamic books and materials containing deviant teachings.

Authorities have frozen 138 bank accounts linked to GISB, with a total value of approximately 1.9 million ringgit ($452,000). Additionally, 14 properties have been seized as part of the money laundering investigation. Several individuals have already been charged with sexual assault of children.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

This case highlights the importance of addressing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 5: Gender Equality, Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities, and Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. Protecting children from abuse and ensuring their well-being is crucial for achieving these goals.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 5: Gender Equality and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are:
– Target 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in public and private spheres
– Target 16.2: End abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and all forms of violence against children
– Target 16.9: By 2030, provide legal identity for all, including birth registration
– Target 16.10: Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements
– Target 16.A: Strengthen relevant national institutions, including through international cooperation, for building capacity at all levels, in particular in developing countries, to prevent violence and combat terrorism and crime
– Target 16.B: Promote and enforce non-discriminatory laws and policies for sustainable development

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

No, the article does not mention or imply any specific indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets.

4. SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: seattletimes.com