Malaysian police detain Islamic group leaders amid child abuse probe

Malaysian police have detained 19 individuals, including the CEO of Global Ikhwan Services and Business, amid a widening investigation into child sexual abuse linked to welfare homes operated by the group. The arrests followed the rescue of 402 children from these homes, where they were reportedly subjected to severe abuse, including sodomy and physical punishment. The children, aged between 1 and 17, were believed to have been indoctrinated and exploited for fundraising purposes. Authorities have frozen numerous bank accounts associated with the group as part of the investigation into various criminal activities, including human trafficking and money laundering. The police chief revealed that some of the detained individuals included family members of the late Ashaari Mohamad, the founder of the controversial Islamic sect Al Arqam. This sect was banned by the government in 1994 due to its heretical teachings. The current investigation has raised concerns about the potential spread of deviant ideologies within the group, prompting Islamic authorities to examine other affiliated homes and religious schools. In a related incident, three young men were charged with sexually assaulting children at a religious school in Negeri Sembilan, further highlighting the alarming trend of abuse linked to the organization. The situation has sparked national outrage, leading to calls for improved child protection measures and stricter monitoring of childcare facilities. As the investigation continues, the Malaysian public is demanding accountability and justice for the victims, emphasizing the need for systemic changes to prevent such abuses in the future. The case has drawn significant media attention, reflecting broader societal concerns about child welfare and the responsibilities of organizations that care for vulnerable populations.