Officers probing serious offences alleged to have involved members of a religious group called the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light, have arrested a number of people.
Cheshire Police were made aware of allegations of serious sexual offences, forced marriage and modern slavery, reported to have taken place in the group based in Crewe in 2023.
All of the offences involved one victim, a woman, who was a member of the group at the time the offences occurred.
Following a detailed investigation, officers have today (April 29th) conducted three warrants in Crewe, including Webb House, leading to the arrest of several people.
Six suspects are in custody including four men and two women of Mexican, American, Spanish, Italian and British nationalities.
More than 500 officers from Cheshire Police and neighbouring forces have been involved in the operation, which took place at around 8.50am.
Following the arrests, detectives are now conducting a search of the premises.
Officers are working closely with the local authority to support the residents from the property and appropriate safeguarding measures are in place.
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.”
Connor Naismith, MP for Crewe and Nantwich, said: “I was informed by Cheshire Police that arrests had been made in relation to allegations of sexual abuse, modern slavery and forced marriage by members of a religious group, widely reported to be the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light, in Crewe.
“So far, 6 suspects are in custody including 4 males and 2 females of Mexican, American, Spanish, Italian and British nationalities.
“These arrests took place across three addresses in Crewe with support from neighbouring forces.
“Constituents will be aware that I have repeatedly raised concerns about this group.
“The allegations are extremely serious and must be investigated fully and without prejudice.
“Cheshire Police are working closely with partner agencies to ensure proper safeguarding of residents in and around Webb House.
“I understand that this news will be particularly worrying for residents in close proximity to the addresses where the arrests have taken place.
“I have asked that Cheshire Police will conduct their investigations thoroughly and promptly to ensure that justice is done and that calm is restored to our community.
“If anyone has any further information that they think may be important to these investigations, I would urge them to get in touch with the police directly.
“I would also like to reiterate Cheshire Police’s requests not to speculate about the arrests as this is an ongoing investigation.”
Anyone with any information which could assist with the investigation is asked to contact Cheshire police at Public Portal or call 101.
Once again we are asked to put up with cultures that are not compatible with British life, different religion is fine, however if you are not able to blend on cultures this is a disaster.
They seem a rum lot, deport them back to Sweden.