HOME Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the authorities have opened 80 investigation papers against GISB Holdings and rescued nearly 600 children from care homes operated by the company.
He said 592 children have been rescued and 359 individuals associated with the company have been detained in connection with ongoing investigation, The Star reported.
“The inquiries into GISB are based on several legal frameworks, including the Child Act 2001 [Act 611], the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017, the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007 and the Penal Code,” he was quoted as saying by the English daily.
Speaking at a press conference at the Home Ministry’s office following their monthly meeting on Monday (Sept 30), Saifuddin said finalising the investigation will take time before the police can submit their findings to the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC).
“The decision on whether prosecutions will follow will ultimately rest with the AGC,” he added.
Saifuddin further expressed his full support for the police in their investigations and his confidence in their competence.
“If there is evidence of the exploitation of women and children, or offences under the Penal Code or the Sexual Offences Against Children Act, please launch an investigation,” he stated. – Sept 30, 2024
Main image: Reuters
