A major enforcement operation in Chow Kit set off a wave of nationwide attention after police raided a gym and sauna allegedly used as a front fit for homosexual activities on November 28.
The Kuala Lumpur Strike Force, assisted by the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department (JAWI) and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), carried out the operation at 8pm following two weeks of monitoring. A total of 208 individuals were detained, including 17 civil servants and 24 foreigners.
“The premises had been operating for nearly ten months, charged RM35 per entry and RM10 for new registrations,” the police said.
Among them was a 59-year-old specialist doctor who claimed he was there for “relax and avoid traffic”, a 19-year-old youth influenced by online reviews and a foreign tourist told officers he found the place through social media.
Image credit: NST
Ministry of Education takes the administrative action
Following the Chow Kit raid, the Ministry of Education (MOE) confirmed that several of its officers was among the 208 people detained. In response, the ministry has immediately removed these officers from all institutions under its jurisdictions until investigations are completed.
Image credit: Bernama
In a statement, the MOE stressed that it views the matter seriously and does not tolerate any form of misconduct. An internal investigation has begun, and all department heads have been instructed to strengthen monitoring efforts within their respective units.
Investigation still ongoing
Authorities stated that all detainees were taken to IPD Dang Wangi and the case is being investigated under Section 377B of the Penal Code, which carries penalties of up to 20 years’ imprisonment and whipping upon conviction. Police are reviewing seized materials, recording statements and identifying the full scope of activities that took place at the premises.
The case has prompted renewed calls for stricter monitoring of commercial establishments and stronger enforcement measures to prevent misuse of business fronts for illegal activities.
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