Speaking to the media at Masjid Al-Iman Kg Desa Putra here, Anwar said he would leave it to the police and religious authorities to investigate the allegations made and take the necessary legal action.

“The Islamic religious department has investigative powers. Let them see whether these (accusations) are true because this is a huge matter of abuse of power and religion, and of children.

“Many have asked me why the action taken had been delayed for so long, so I have (ordered) for immediate action and a report to be made,” he said.

On Wednesday, the police raided 20 welfare homes in Selangor and Negeri Sembilan allegedly linked to GISBH, and rescued 402 children who are believed to be victims of physical abuse, sexual abuse and abandonment.

Inspector-General of Police Razarudin Husain today said 13 of the victims are suspected to have been sodomised.

He also said most of them have sustained both new and old wounds and are now undergoing medical check-ups at the police training centre.

GISBH has since denied the allegations and threatened legal action against those who defame the company.

It said “certain quarters” have a hidden agenda, aimed at smearing its image and damaging its business.