GISBH companies on the brink of the abyss

PETALING JAYACompanies and charities under the controversial Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings (GISBH) are on the brink of total collapse after police seized and froze several accounts as part of the investigation.

The company premises in Bandar Country Homes, Rawang, which also houses the company’s headquarters, is being considered a “ghost town”, according to a report by Harian Metro, following multiple raids and seizures by authorities during Op Global Phase Four last Saturday (Sept 21).

Several restaurants, supermarkets and business premises across the country have also closed their doors.

Most of GISBH’s supporters and workers are believed to have fled to avoid arrest after their leader was captured in a series of raids across the country on Wednesday (September 18).

The Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) is currently conducting investigations from “various angles”, as cited, which have led to money laundering, apart from charges relating to child abuse, sexual misconduct and exploitation.

READ ALSO: Jawi teacher with GISBH ties sentenced to 10 years in prison for child abuse

Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said the investigation was continuing in a meticulous and phased manner, in accordance with existing legal provisions, including the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012, better known as Sosma.

“The investigation is still ongoing. We (police) are collecting all evidence that points to a violation of certain laws,” he said.

The fourth phase of the operation, last Saturday (September 21), revealed that several books, documents and photographs related to Al-Arqam’s teachings and the company were seized.

221 properties linked to GISBH were found empty, with members of the company believed to have “walked out”, the source said.

In addition, police have frozen 153 bank accounts, 138 of which have a total value of RM882,795, while 15 others have been closed.

READ ALSO: Ten reports filed against GISBH over unpaid wages, says IGP

To date, 572 children and teenagers suspected of being abused and exploited by GISBH have been rescued by police through Op Global, which has been ongoing since Wednesday (September 11).

In addition, more than 300 people were arrested, including senior officials of the GISBH.