Don't resort to draconian Sosma, bring GISBH followers to court: Ex-MP to IGP

Former PKR MP Maria Chin Abdullah has called on the police to not resort to the use of the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act (Sosma) against followers of Global Ikhwan Services and Businesses Holdings (GISBH) arrested in recent weeks.

Instead, Maria, a former Sosma detainee, said there are existing provisions under the Criminal Procedure Code which would still allow police to extend their investigations.

“It is interesting that the police were able to investigate and gather evidence in a short space of time.

“This includes not only rescuing over 400 children, arresting some of the key members allegedly involved in the abuse and recently recovering some books which were found to be buried near a river,” she said in a statement.

The former Bersih chairperson said this in response to Inspector-General of Police Razarudin Husain’s statement yesterday that authorities are looking at using Sosma, as well as all available provisions under other laws to ensure that no further attempts can be made to revive GISBH which evolved from the banned Al-Arqam deviant sect.

“The evidence is there as claimed by the police over the last week or so and they have even publicly shown what they have found.

“The case of GISBH is of public interest to everyone and all investigations must be through an open trial so that the public knows the truth,” she said.

Justice not guaranteed

Maria reiterated that Sosma, which allows for an extended detention without trial, does not guarantee justice for the accused and so should be abolished.

Further, she called on the police and relevant ministries to focus on bringing the alleged perpetrators to court, immediately shut down all unregistered homes operated by the organisation and provide immediate emotional and psychological support to the affected children.

Specifically, she said the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry should give an immediate order to shut down all “illegal services” operated by GISBH as well as conduct a nationwide audit of all homes, be it for children, elderly or persons with disabilities, to check their legal status.

“This must also include an in-depth review of the standard operating procedures on how the Social Welfare Department is monitoring the homes – not just the licensing but also the quality of care given to those living in these homes,” she added.

Chronology of events

On Sept 11, Razarudin first announced that police under Ops Global had rescued 402 children in raids on 20 welfare homes operated by GISBH in Selangor and Negeri Sembilan, and also arrested 171 people.

Since then, a number of those arrested have been reportedly charged with offences under the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017.

Ongoing investigations were also reportedly conducted under the Child Act 2001; Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001; Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007; and Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984.

Others under remand include top leaders of GISBH.

Companies commission reviewing GISBH business registration: Armizan

Evaluating kids rescued from GISBH homes takes time - Fadhlina

Razarudin: GISBH members still practise Al Arqam teachings

Decision on GISBH doctrine after Conference of Rulers' October meet: Na'im

GISBH: IGP says cops have rescued abused kids seen in viral video

'Everything done by the book', IGP counters PAS' overzealous claim

Evidence from raids may clarify faith of GISBH followers - Jakim