Malaysian Police Rescue 402 Children from Welfare Homes in Nationwide Raids

On September 11, 2024, Malaysian police carried out a major rescue mission, freeing 402 children from 20 charity welfare homes in Selangor and Negeri Sembilan. This operation, called “Op Global,” was a team effort involving several law enforcement agencies.

Details of the Operation and Arrests

Police raided 18 locations in Selangor and two in Negeri Sembilan. They arrested 171 people, including caretakers, religious instructors, and heads of the welfare homes. These individuals, aged between 17 and 64, are being investigated under various laws, including the Penal Code and the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants (ATIPSOM) Act 2007.

Allegations of Mistreatment and Exploitation

The authorities acted on reports that the children had faced mistreatment. These reports include claims of inappropriate activities, physical and emotional abuse, and neglect.

Some children were reportedly denied proper care and lived in harsh conditions. Authorities are looking into whether these are part of a larger issue within these institutions.

Types of Mistreatment Reported

Children faced severe physical discipline and had to do hard labor.
Some children experienced inappropriate treatment and were pressured into similar actions with others.
Visits from parents were very limited, and contact was severely restricted.
Married couples had to follow strict schedules to spend time together.
Marriages were arranged by the management, and couples were not allowed to live together after marriage.

Current Status and Connection to GISB Holdings

All the rescued children are Malaysian nationals. Many had limited contact with their parents, some of whom may be living abroad. The homes have been temporarily closed, and the children are now staying at the Kuala Lumpur police training center for care and further evaluation.

There are potential links between these welfare homes and GISB Holdings Sdn Bhd. However, GISB Holdings denies these allegations, stating that the homes raided were not managed by them. The company plans to take legal action against anyone it believes is making false claims and insists that the accusations are an attempt to damage its reputation.

Legal and Social Support for the Children

The government, through the Legal Aid Department, is helping the rescued children with legal support. Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department, stated in a Facebook post today (Sept 13) that she has instructed her department to establish contact with the children and their families.

Ongoing Investigations and Child Welfare Efforts

Inspector-General Razarudin confirmed that the investigation is still ongoing. Authorities are working to reunite the children with their families whenever possible, prioritizing their safety and well-being.