KUALA LUMPUR – Police have arrested a youth leader of an Umno division in Mersing, Johor, in connection with a series of alleged incidents involving sodomy and sexual assault on male teenagers.
According to police sources, the suspect was nabbed at around 3pm at his residence in Kg Penyabong, Endau, Mersing, yesterday. He has been remanded for three days until March 21.
The 36-year-old suspect is under investigation pursuant to Section 377, which carries the penalty of imprisonment for a term ranging from five to 20 years, in addition to whipping upon conviction.
In another development, it has come to light that at least six individuals have come forward, alleging misconduct by the politician, with two of them being minors aged 15 this year.
On March 18, the latest individual to step forward, identified as victim A, disclosed to his mother an encounter with the suspect dating back to October last year, involving a purported sexual assault. Victim A refrained from meeting the suspect again, confiding in his mother after learning that a friend had filed a police report on a similar incident.
Victim A further revealed the existence of other affected individuals and potential video evidence, though they have yet to approach authorities.
Another alleged victim, identified as victim B, recounted a pattern of sexual assault by the suspect, accompanied by threats of repercussions for reporting the incidents.
Two additional victims stated they had been subjected to molestation by the suspect since they were 14 and 17 years old, as detailed in police records.
Investigations revealed that the suspect often accompanied the victims during volunteer activities, owing to his involvement in non-governmental organisations in Mersing.
Given the volume of reported incidents, authorities have not dismissed the possibility of more victims emerging.
All individuals who have filed reports have been advised to undergo medical examinations at Mersing Hospital. – March 20, 2024