JAWI on hunt for 'Ustaz Casanova'

The Federal Territory Islamic Religious Department (JAWI) is tracking down a man impersonating an ustaz (religious teacher), who is believed to have deceived 13 women through marriage and polygamy without court's permission.

JAWI director Paimuzi Yahya said on Oct 25 the Kuala Lumpur Syariah Court has issued a warrant of arrest against Mohd Razis Ismail, also known as Ustaz Casanova, after he failed to appear at the department to extend his bail.

"The offence committed by the suspect is marrying without going bthrough then stipulated procedures.

"Most of his marriages and divorces are not registered under the Malaysian law," he told a press conference here on Tuesday.

Paimuzi said the suspect's modus operandi was to pose as a religious teacher to trick his victims.

"He claimed to be single and is known as Ustaz Arrozi Abdul Rahman and Ibnu Ar Razi. He targetted on female students at higher education institutions or widows who are financially well-off," he added.

Those with information on him are advised to contact JAWI investigating officer Farah Wahida Zulkiflee at 011-32961821 or the JAWI enforcement division toll-free line 1-800-88-1771.