KUALA LUMPUR: The business practices of Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings (GISBH) were influenced by the teachings of a version of Aurad Muhammadiyah, which the group continues to practise, said Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain.
He said that the members were excessively devoted ("taksub") and idolised the company's leadership to the extent of distorting the true teachings of Islam.
"Our investigations revealed that followers were indoctrinated to fully embrace the way of life promoted by the company. This level of devotion poses a threat to both national security and the welfare of the followers, who are entirely dependent on their leaders," he said today.
Police reports confirm that GISBH members continue to practise the banned Aurad Muhammadiyah, based on materials such as books and pamphlets seized during the fourth phase of Op Global on Sept 21.
During these raids, police confiscated 455 books, pamphlets, and logos linked to the group's teachings.
Intelligence suggests that members were still following the banned practices, as the materials were related to the late Al-Arqam founder, Ashaari Muhammad.
GISBH has been at the centre of police investigations since Sept 11, when raids on 20 of its allegedly operated welfare homes led to the rescue of 402 children.
Further medical screenings revealed that many of these children had suffered physical and emotional abuse, with 13 reportedly being sodomised.
Despite the gravity of the allegations, GISBH has denied any involvement in child exploitation or sexual abuse.