GOMBAK: A group of GISB Holdings (GISBH) members including their families, who live and work in Bandar Country Homes in Rawang, here, have allegedly "escaped" after their leader was apprehended by the police on Thursday.
A resident in the area, who refused to be named, said the group was seen leaving their homes located at a residential area near the business centre there.
"I saw many of them including children being brought out of their homes carrying bags and getting into vans that were waiting for them outside.
"Now their houses are empty, but you can still see some items and clothes being left behind. The shops have also been closed since two days ago after the group's leaders were arrested," they told Harian Metro today.
They said the business centre had been operating for over 10 years since they since they relocated there, after Al-Arqam was banned.
"Throughout my time living here, they have not mingled with the local residents and only live within their own group. I even asked to become a member because I was intrigued by their business success, but I was turned away because they don't accept outsiders.
"In fact, I find it strange that I have never seen them perform congregational prayers at the mosque, including Friday prayers, despite many young workers in the area."
"I also do not see elderly people living here, I am not sure where they reside. If there are any older individuals here, they are likely only among the leaders," he said.
It was reported that the Selangor police raided a business district largely owned by the GISBH network in Bandar Country Homes early this morning.
The raid took place at 6.30am, involving 50 officers and 200 personnel from the Selangor Police and the Federal Reserve Unit, with assistance from the Selangor Islamic Religious Department and the Selayang Municipal Council (MPS).
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain in a statement confirmed arresting 31 GISBH members, including 17 who hold positions in the organisation.
He said in total, there had been 200 arrests linked to the organisation, and said a seven-day remand had been granted for all arrests.
The investigation is being conducted under Section 12 of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007.