KUALA LUMPUR – Police have arrested 13 men in multiple raids nationwide over alleged online offences involving child sexual abuse content.
According to Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain, the suspects aged between 20 and 74 were arrested in Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Perak, Johor and Terengganu under Op Pedo have been placed under remand.
The raids, held yesterday, were done in collaboration with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
“Checks on devices used in the homes of all suspects found an estimated 40,000 child sexual abuse content and adult pornographic materials,” Razarudin said in a statement.
Seven computers, a laptop, 11 mobile phones, as well as 16 routers and modems were confiscated during the raids.
Razarudin also said 13 investigation papers were opened under Section 10 of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act (Act 792) for the possession of child pornography and Section 292 of the Penal Code for the sale, distribution, or public exhibition of obscene materials.
Section 10 of Act 792 provides for up to five years in jail, a maximum RM10,000 fine, or both, upon conviction. Meanwhile, Section 292 of the Penal Code is punishable by up to three years imprisonment, a fine, or both.
“The objective of this joint operation was to track down child sexual offenders who conducted their activities online, specifically via social media.
“(This operation was also held) to create awareness among parents, community and platform providers on the importance of ensuring children’s safety,” added the country’s top cop. – December 24, 2024