Kuala lumpur: The Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department (JAWI) is currently investigating over 100 local individuals who were apprehended during a raid at a health club in the federal capital last Friday. The club is suspected of being used for immoral activities.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, stated that the investigation is being conducted under Section 25 of the Syariah Criminal Offences (Federal Territories) Act 1997 for sodomy and Section 47 for attempting to commit any offence under the Act. Dr Mohd Na’im emphasized that from JAWI’s perspective, the investigation remains ongoing.

Dr Mohd Na’im also mentioned that the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (JAKIM) and JAWI will enhance their da’wah efforts to provide clear explanations on practices considered deviant from Islamic teachings and MADANI values. He asserted that such acts are unacceptable not only legally but also from a religious perspective.

Earlier today, Kuala Lumpur police chief Datuk Fadil Marsus reported that 171 local individuals arrested in the raid were released after the court dismissed the police application for remand. These individuals were initially held for investigations under Section 377 (unnatural sexual intercourse) and Section 372 (exploitation of prostitution) of the Penal Code. However, the case could not proceed as none admitted to being a victim.

The individuals were part of a larger group of 208 people detained during the raid at the health club in Chow Kit, which was suspected of hosting homosexual activities. During the operation, police seized condoms and other items believed to be used for immoral purposes.