CERTAIN individuals are exploiting their position as 'religious figures' to commit sexual crimes, reported Kosmo.
Federal police Sexual, Women, and Child Investigations Division (D11) principal assistant director Siti Kamsiah Hassan said the number of such cases was on the rise.
"The perpetrators typically include religious teachers, celebrity preachers, and ustaz, many of whom are idolised by their victims.
These perpetrators use their status as religious figures to gain the trust of their victims before engaging in such acts," she said.
According to Kosmo, these individuals would also shower the victims with gifts before requesting them to perform indecent acts.
These include acts such as massaging intimate areas or engaging in sexual acts.
"While most perpetrators are men and their victims women, the number of male victims is also increasing.
"Most victims felt embarrassed to share their experiences or report the incidents," she said.
In cases involving children, Siti Kasiah said these crimes are often uncovered when one victim reveals the misconduct of a religious figure.
"This prompts others to come forward with similar experiences," she said. - January 2, 2025
