Police have arrested nine individuals in connection with an investigation into allegations of sexual abuse, forced marriage, and modern slavery at a religious community in Crewe, Cheshire.
More than 500 officers were involved in the operation targeting the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light, which has its headquarters at a former orphanage known as Webb House in Crewe. The property is home to approximately 150 people.
According to Cheshire Police, the suspects include six men and three women of American, Mexican, Italian, Spanish, Swedish, and Egyptian nationalities. They were taken into custody during raids at Webb House and two other properties on Nantwich Road and Badger Avenue in Crewe.
The investigation was launched after a woman came forward in March this year alleging that she was raped and sexually abused while part of the Ahmadi religion in 2023. All alleged offences involve a single victim.
Chief Superintendent Gareth Wrigley of Cheshire Constabulary stated: "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. 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."
He added: "We treat all reports of sexual assault seriously and are committed to doing all we can to achieve justice. Following the arrests we are working closely with our partners to provide the appropriate advice and safeguarding to other members of the group."
Wrigley reassured residents that there is no risk to the wider community and that patrols have been stepped up to provide reassurance. He urged anyone with concerns to speak to an officer.
The Ahmadi religious group moved to Cheshire from Sweden in 2021, purchasing Webb House as their base. The group was founded by Abdullah Hashem, who is reportedly an Egyptian-American.
Welfare centres have been set up to safeguard 56 children, all of whom are home-schooled and part of the local Ahmadi community.
