Police have arrested nine individuals in Crewe, Cheshire, as part of an investigation into allegations of sexual abuse, forced marriage, and modern slavery. The suspects—six men and three women—are of American, Mexican, Italian, Spanish, Swedish, and Egyptian nationalities.
Raids and Investigation
The arrests were made following raids on three properties, including Webb House in Crewe, which serves as the base for the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light. The investigation was launched after a woman came forward in March 2026 with allegations of rape and sexual abuse that she said occurred while she was a member of the religious group in 2023. All alleged offences involve a single victim.
Police Statement
Chief Superintendent Gareth Wrigley of Cheshire Constabulary emphasised that the operation targets serious criminal allegations, not the religion itself. “This is a robust investigation into very serious allegations,” he said. “We are not investigating the religion; we are investigating crimes.”
Safeguarding Measures
Welfare centres have been established to safeguard 56 children from the community, all of whom are home-schooled. Police have reassured residents that there is no risk to the wider public. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
