(UNITED KINGDOM)
Manchester Evening News [Manchester, UK]
April 29, 2026
By Ashlie Blakey
Cheshire Police are investigating allegations involving members of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light group in Crewe
Police have carried out huge raids in Cheshire this morning in connection with serious allegations involving members of a religious group.
The allegations are alleged to have involved members of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light group based in Crewe. Cheshire Police said the force was made aware of allegations of serious sexual offences, forced marriage and modern slavery.
This morning (April 29), officers raided three properties in connection to the group, including the HQ at Webb House. The Ahmadi religious community, linked to a branch of Islam, are based at the former orphanage, with around 150 people living at the property.
Multiple arrests have been made, though Cheshire Police has not yet confirmed how many. More than 500 officers were involved in the operation this morning at around 8.50am.
Searches are now being carried out as part of the investigation. “Officers are working closely with the local authority to support the residents from the property and appropriate safeguarding measures are in place”, a force spokesperson said.
The offences are all reported to have taken place in 2023. They involved one victim, a woman, who was part of the group at the time, a police spokesperson confirmed.
Chief Superintendent Gareth Wrigley, of Cheshire Constabulary, 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.
“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. 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. I would like to reassure residents that there is no risk to the wider community, and patrols have been stepped up to provide reassurance to local residents. I would urge anyone with any concerns to speak to an officer.”
Anyone with any information on the investigation should contact Cheshire police at Public Portal or call 101.