Hundreds of police raid religious group over allegations of rape and slavery

Hundreds of officers took part in raids in Crewe,Cheshire,with the suspects allegedly members of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light (Picture: Crewe Police)

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.’

The Ahmadi religious group moved to Cheshire in 2021 from Sweden,buying and basing themselves at Webb House.

The group was founded by Abdullah Hashem who is reportedly an Egyptian-American.

A number of welfare centres have been set up to safeguard and look after 56 children,all home-schooled and part of the local Ahmadi community.

Police said the investigation has been supported by officers from Europol,the Swedish Police Authority and the Garda.

Connor Naismith,Labour MP for Crewe and Nantwich,wrote on X that he had ‘repeatedly raised concerns about the group’.

He said: ‘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 calm is restored to our community.’

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at .