KUALA LUMPUR: The police are currently investigating claims made via the Pusat Kajian Ajaran Sesat (Pukas) Facebook account regarding the existence of GISB Sdn Bhd quarantine centres at various locations, both domestically and abroad.
In a media statement on Saturday (Sept 28), Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said these quarantine centres are believed to be used for indoctrination and to subject problematic members to mental abuse.
Pukas, a centre that researches deviationist teachings, alleged that these quarantine methods originate from practices introduced by the founder of Al-Arqam and Rufaqa, Abuya Ashaari. Problematic members of the congregation were isolated in remote locations.
They were quarantined, prohibited from social interactions, and confined to small rooms or specific spaces for self-reflection. These centres are reportedly located on GISB-owned land in remote areas.
Razarudin said the police are actively tracing assets linked to or owned by GISB to facilitate the investigation.
The police have also initiated 10 investigation papers under Section 12 of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007 following reports of forced labour from several former employees of the company.
Commenting on his Sept 25 statement regarding the GISB network having never paid business-related taxes, the IGP clarified that this refers to the most recent tax assessment period, currently under investigation by the Inland Revenue Board in collaboration with the police.
"This investigation focuses on several companies under GISB that are suspected of failing to comply with certain provisions of the Income Tax Act 1967," he stated.
The police launched Op Global on Sept 11, raiding 20 welfare homes linked to GISB in Selangor and Negeri Sembilan, following allegations of child abuse, labour exploitation, and religious manipulation.
Since the operation began, more than 300 individuals, including the top management of GISB, have been arrested, and 572 victims have been rescued. – Bernama
