Ahmadi religion of peace and light

A large-scale police operation involving 500 officers has led to multiple arrests at the headquarters of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light in Crewe, Cheshire, on April 29, 2026. This operation comes amid serious allegations of sexual offences and modern slavery.

The police raided the AROPL headquarters following reports of severe allegations, including forced marriage. The alleged offences reportedly took place in 2023 and involved one victim, a woman who was a member of the group.

The operation mobilized about 500 officers from Cheshire Police. The AROPL headquarters is based out of a former orphanage known as Webb House, where approximately 150 people currently reside. Among them are 56 children, who are understood to be home-schooled.

The group moved its headquarters to the UK from Sweden in 2021. Since then, it has had an estimated 7,000 people interacting with its movement across England.

The investigation focuses on individual suspects rather than the religious group as a whole. Suspects include men and women from various nationalities including American, Mexican, British, German, and Spanish.

Chief Superintendent Gareth Wrigley emphasized that “This is not an investigation into the religion; this is an investigation into the serious allegations which have been reported to us.” He also stated that they treat all reports of sexual assault seriously and are committed to achieving justice.

In response to the arrests, Wrigley noted that they are working closely with local partners to provide safeguarding measures for residents at Webb House. AROPL’s lawyers have stated that any wrongdoing is vehemently denied by their client.