KUALA LUMPUR: The Women, Family and Community Development Ministry has assured that the children rescued from welfare homes during the operation codenamed Ops Global are receiving appropriate protection and care.
Its minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the children's welfare is being looked after by the Social Welfare Department.
"The rescued children are now in a safe place, which is under the department's care and police supervision," she said in a statement, today.
Nancy also assured that the ministry through the Social Welfare Department has been involved in the operation since the beginning.
She also clarified that the ministry did not release a statement regarding the matter to allow the authorities to carry out their duties smoothly.
She added that the ministry has always been concerned about the welfare of the children and that the department's focus on the matter is to provide the rescued children with proper protection, care and support to ensure they feel calm, comfortable, and safe.
"Many have contacted me to enquire about the condition of the children in the recent police operation that has garnered public attention.
"Unlike usual, I did not release an early statement or a response regarding this case to allow the authorities to carry out their duties smoothly. I also did not want any of my statements to interfere with the investigation or operation.
"(But) what I can share is that the ministry through the department has been involved from the outset of this operation."
Nancy also said she would leave further information on the case to the police.
"Thank you to the public, non-governmental organisations and everyone who has expressed concern for the welfare of these children.
"Your support is greatly appreciated, and we will continue to fulfill our responsibilities in the best interests of the children," she said.
It was reported that 402 children and teenagers were rescued by police in an integrated operation codenamed 'Ops Global'.
The children, aged one to 17, were from 20 charity homes in Selangor and Negri Sembilan, and were suspected of being victims of exploitation, neglect and mistreatment.
The victims were also allegedly sodomised and were taught to sexually assault others.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said the victims comprised 201 children and adolescent boys, and 201 girls.
A total of 171 individuals, aged 17 to 64, including 105 women, were also arrested in the operation.
The investigation papers that were opened were under Section 31 (1) of the Children's Act 2001, Section 14 of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017, and Section 354 of the Penal Code.