Police deployed to Crewe religious group over sexual offences, modern slavery and forced marriage
By Ryan Parker 29th Apr 2026
Police have been deployed to a religious group in Crewe, over sexual offences, modern slavery and forced marriage offences involving members.
On Wednesday 29 April, officers conducted three warrants at The Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light (AROPL), Victoria Avenue, who have multiple addresses in Crewe.
Around 8.50am, 500 officers supported by the North West region, including a police helicopter above, were in Crewe, with the majority at Webb House.
Six suspects, four males and two women, of multiple nationalities, have been arrested.
These are of American. Mexican, Italian, Spanish and British nationalities.
All of the offences involved one victim, a woman, who was a member of the group at the time the offences occurred.
Police have confirmed members of the group are being investigated, but not the AROPL themselves.
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, with "appropriate safeguarding measures" in place.
This March, Cheshire Police was made aware of allegations of serious sexual offences, forced marriage and modern slavery, reported to have taken place in 2023.
Webb House, a former children's orphanage was purchased by AROPL in 2021 after moving to the UK from Sweden.
Chief Superintendent, Gareth Wrigley, of Cheshire Constabulary, told Nub News; "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."
Anyone with any information which could assist with the investigation is asked to contact Cheshire police at Public Portal or call 101.
Labour MP for Crewe & Nantwich, Connor Naismith, told Nub News: "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. I
"f 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."
Crewe Nub News has contacted Reform UK Crewe and Nantwich for comment.
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