Crewe Religious Group Raided by Police Over Serious Allegations
Approximately 500 officers from across the north-west of England executed warrants at the headquarters of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light (AROPL) in Crewe, Cheshire, on Wednesday morning. The operation followed an investigation into allegations of serious sexual offences, modern slavery, and forced marriage.
Police confirmed that nine individuals were arrested and are currently in custody. The suspects, who include American, Mexican, Spanish, Egyptian, Italian, and Swedish nationals, face suspicions of human trafficking, sexual assault, rape, forced marriage, and modern-day slavery. Additionally, 13 other people were arrested on public order charges unrelated to the main investigation.
The raids targeted the group's headquarters, a former orphanage, and other properties in Crewe. The road adjacent to the compound was closed as a convoy of police vehicles entered the gated site.
Chief Superintendent Gareth Wrigley emphasized that the investigation focuses on individual suspects, not the religion itself. He stated, "While those arrested are members of the group, this is not an investigation into the religion; this is an investigation into the serious allegations reported to us." He added that the force treats all reports of sexual assault seriously and is committed to achieving justice.
Background of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light
AROPL is a religious sect that moved its headquarters to Crewe in 2021. It blends Shia Islam with conspiracy theories about the Illuminati and aliens controlling US presidents. Followers wear black beanie hats and believe their leader can perform miracles, such as curing the sick and making the moon disappear. The group claims to be a peaceful, open, and transparent movement that has faced persecution worldwide due to its advocacy for equality and human rights. It holds charitable status in the UK.
Approximately 150 people live in the grade II-listed building in Crewe, with additional followers in the town and globally. The group produces slick social media videos from its on-site studio, amassing over 31 million views on YouTube. Around 56 children reside at the headquarters and are home-schooled. Police are working with local authorities to implement safeguarding measures.
Cheshire East council's social services have previously made inquiries about the group and its children, but no action was deemed necessary at the time.
Previous Investigations and Legal Issues
Former members have described living in a tightly controlled environment, feeling pressured to cut ties with outsiders. AROPL's lawyers have denied these claims. The group moved to the UK from Sweden in 2021, having previously been based in Egypt and Germany. In Sweden, the sect faced immigration investigations, resulting in 69 members losing their residency permits. An immigration court ordered deportations in 2022, though most members had already relocated to the UK. AROPL condemned the Swedish investigations as racist and religious persecution.
The group is also under investigation by the UK Home Office regarding its use of skilled worker visas, specifically for AROPL Studios, a company established in 2021 to produce social media content. AROPL denies any illegal immigration practices, asserting that all members and workers have lawful immigration status.
When asked about the recent arrests, AROPL's lawyers stated, "Our client has no comment other than to say that any wrongdoing is vehemently denied."
