Nine held as 500 officers raid UK religious community
UK police have arrested nine people as part of an investigation into allegations of sexual abuse, forced marriage and modern slavery in a religious community.
More than 500 police officers took part in raids in Crewe, Cheshire, with suspects alleged to be members of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light, which has its headquarters in the town.
Cheshire police said six men and three women of US, Mexican, Italian, Spanish, Swedish and Egyptian nationality were in custody.
The Ahmadi religious community, which is affiliated with a branch of Islam, is based at Webb House, a former orphanage in Crewe, with around 150 people living at the facility.
Two other properties with local links to the suspects were also raided.
The arrests came after a woman who appeared to have moved to the Republic of Ireland made allegations of rape and sexual abuse in March 2023 while practicing the Ahmadi religion.
All of the alleged crimes involved a single victim.
Superintendent Gareth Wrigley, of Cheshire Constabulary, said: “Today’s operation is the result of a detailed and robust investigation into reports of serious sexual offending, forced marriage and modern slavery involving members of a religious group called the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light in Crewe.
“Although those arrested are members of the group, I would like to make it clear that this is not a religious investigation, but an investigation into serious allegations that have been reported to us.
“We take all reports of sexual assault seriously and are committed to doing all we can to ensure justice.
“Following the arrests, we are working closely with our partners to provide appropriate advice and protection to other members of the group.
“I would like to reassure residents that there is no risk to the wider community and patrols have been increased to reassure local residents. I would urge anyone with any concerns to speak to an officer.”
The Ahmadi religious group moved to Cheshire from Sweden in 2021, purchasing Webb House and setting up base there.
The group was founded by Abdullah Hashim, who is said to be a US-Egyptian citizen.
A number of outreach centers were established for the protection and care of 56 children, all of whom were home-schooled and part of the local Ahmadi community.
