Properties Belonging To Religious Group Raided in Major Police Operation Following Modern Slavery Allegations
A massive police operation unfolded in Crewe on Wednesday morning as more than 500 officers from Cheshire and surrounding areas executed raids on properties linked to the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light (AROPL). The warrants, which were served shortly before 9:00 a.m., targeted several sites, including Webb House, the group's headquarters which is housed in a former orphanage.
The raids mark a significant development in an investigation into claims of forced marriage, modern slavery, and serious sexual offenses. Cheshire Police launched the investigation last month after receiving a complaint from a woman who was a member of the sect in 2023. She reportedly alleged that she was raped and sexually abused at the group’s headquarters.
Authorities confirmed that several men have been arrested in connection with the inquiry. The suspects are reportedly nationals of the United States, Mexico, Germany, Spain, and the UK. Following the arrests, detectives began searching the premises, where roughly 150 members reside, including approximately 56 children who are homeschooled on-site.
Chief Superintendent Gareth Wrigley stated that the force is working alongside the local council to ensure safeguarding measures are in place for the residents. In a statement regarding the operation, he said: “Today's operation is the outcome of a detailed and robust investigation into reports of serious sexual offences, forced marriage and modern slavery involving members of a religious group called Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light in Crewe.”
He sought to distance the criminal investigation from the group's theology, adding: “While those arrested are members of the group, I want to make clear that this is not an investigation into the religion, this is an investigation into the serious allegations which have been reported to us.”
The AROPL is a sect known for a unique belief system that combines elements of Islam with conspiracy theories involving aliens and the Illuminati. Its leadership has previously made claims regarding the ability to heal the sick and manipulate the moon.
Regarding the allegations, legal representatives for the group provided a short response to the press: “Our client has no comment other than to say that any wrongdoing is vehemently denied.”
Cheshire Constabulary has stressed that there is no threat to the broader community and that patrols have been increased to reassure residents. Officials are urging anyone with relevant information to reach out via the police public portal or by calling 101.
