A 25-year-old caretaker at a children’s welfare home in Batu Caves, Selangor, appeared in court and pleaded guilty to 15 charges of sexual offences involving five boys aged between 8 and 13. Retna Velu was charged with the offences, which included both physical and non-physical sexual acts, committed over a period of several months from November 2025 to March 2026.
In terms of legal consequences, the charges are as follows:
Physical sexual assault charges: Charged under Section 14(a) of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment and is also liable to whipping upon conviction.
Non-physical sexual assault charges: Charged under Section 15(a)(i) of the same Act, which provides for a maximum of 10 years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to RM20,000, or both.
Acts against the order of nature charges: Three charges involving two children in February and March 2026 under Section 377C of the Penal Code, which carries a minimum of five years and up to 20 years’ imprisonment, along with whipping upon conviction.
The court denied bail for the caretaker pending the presentation of facts, and sentencing is scheduled for May 21, 2026.
How the Case Came to Light
The case initially uncovered after a police report was lodged in March 2026 which made the investigators to examine the welfare home. The report detailed allegations of abuse by the caretaker and police acted swiftly to interview victims, staff and others connected to the home.
Further investigation revealed that the children’s welfare home located at Batu Caves was unregistered and operating illegally. Without proper approval or oversight from authorities, the home lacked standard safeguards which is designed to protect children. Their investigation revealed not only the specific incidents involving the five boys but also suggested that the home’s environment allowed for the potential exploitation of other children.
Other Individuals Involved
Valan, 31-year-old, the owner of the home has also been charged in connection with offences involving other children. He has pleaded not guilty and was granted bail of RM30,000 with conditions set by the court as his case continues.
Recent reports further revealed that four individuals have been arrested in connection with abuse at the unlicensed home, suggesting that more people may have been involved over the years. Police investigations indicate that some of the abuse may have been ongoing for as long as 10 years.
The case highlights the serious risks posed by unregulated children’s homes and the urgent need for proper monitoring to ensure the safety of minors. Authorities stress that early reporting of abuse is critical in preventing prolonged victimization and holding perpetrators accountable. With multiple victims and suspects now identified, the case serves as a warning about the potential dangers in unlicensed care institutions and underscores the responsibility of both authorities and the public to safeguard vulnerable children.
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