18-9-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) A 39-year-old businessman associated with GISB Holdings Sdn Bhd has pleaded not guilty to charges of criminal intimidation against a young woman. The case, which unfolded at the Putrajaya Magistrate’s Court on Monday, has drawn significant attention due to its connection to the ongoing investigation into alleged child abuse at welfare homes in Selangor and Negeri Sembilan.
Mohamad Riza Makar, the accused, stood before Magistrate Ahmad Afiq Hasan to face allegations that he had threatened a 25-year-old woman in an attempt to coerce her into withdrawing a police report against Global Ikhwan Services and Business (GISB). The company has been thrust into the spotlight following allegations of sexual abuse at children’s homes linked to the organisation.
According to court documents, the alleged intimidation took place on 9 September at approximately 10pm in a car park located in Presint 4, Putrajaya. The prosecution contends that Makar’s actions were a direct attempt to obstruct justice in the wider investigation into GISB’s operations.
The charge, filed under Section 506 of the Penal Code, carries severe penalties. If found guilty, Makar could face up to two years imprisonment, a fine, or both. The gravity of the accusation is underscored by its timing, coming just days before a major police operation targeting care homes associated with GISB.
In setting bail conditions, Magistrate Ahmad Afiq demonstrated the court’s recognition of the case’s sensitivity. Makar was granted bail at RM10,000 (approximately S$3032) with one surety. Additionally, the court mandated that the accused surrender his international passport and report to his local police station on a monthly basis.
The case has garnered significant public interest, particularly in light of the recent ‘Ops Global’ rescue operation conducted by Malaysian authorities. On 11 September, just two days after the alleged intimidation incident, police successfully removed 402 children from care homes in Selangor and Negri Sembilan. The rescued minors, evenly split between 201 boys and 201 girls, ranged in age from one to 17 years old.
