Full Breakdown
Police Raid Targets Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light Headquarters in Crewe
4/29/2026, 8:33:36 PM
Raid Overview
On 29 April 2026, Cheshire Constabulary, backed by over 500 north-west officers, executed search warrants at three Crewe addresses, including the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light headquarters at Webb House, a former orphanage. Arrests were made, though the exact number remains undisclosed. The probe concerns alleged serious sexual offences, forced marriage and modern slavery reported to have occurred in 2023 involving a single female victim.
Background and Timeline
AROPL, a sect blending Shia-Islamic elements with conspiracy theories, originated in Iraq, later operated in Sweden where immigration officials issued deportation orders, and moved its UK headquarters to Webb House, Crewe in 2021. In March 2026 police were alerted by a woman now in the Republic of Ireland about alleged rape and sexual abuse at the site. The 29 April raid followed.
Data Summary
The operation involved ~500 officers, three properties, ~150 residents (including 56 children), suspects of American, Mexican, British, German and Spanish nationality, and a movement active in 40 countries with ~7,000 contacts.
Significance and Impact
The raid underscores law-enforcement’s focus on safeguarding vulnerable people and tackling modern-slavery crimes, while raising questions about balancing criminal probes with religious-freedom protections; police stress the investigation targets individuals, not the faith, and have increased patrols to reassure the community.
Official Statements
Cheshire Police said the raid stems from a ‘detailed and robust investigation’ into the alleged crimes and is not an inquiry into the religion. They are working with local authorities to safeguard residents and assure the public there is no immediate risk.
Criticism and Opposition
AROPL’s lawyers denied any wrongdoing. The group’s unconventional beliefs, such as claims its leader can ‘cure the sick and make the moon disappear,’ have drawn public scrutiny, though no official link to the alleged offences has been made.
Conflicting Reports
Police have not disclosed the number of arrests, and sources differ on resident figures, citing ‘around 150 people’ versus ‘150 adults and children.’
Verbatim Quotes
- “We treat all reports of sexual assault seriously and are committed to doing all we can to achieve justice.” — Chief Superintendent Gareth Wrigley
- “Officers are working closely with the local authority to support the residents from the property and appropriate safeguarding measures are in place” — Cheshire Police spokesperson
- “Our client has no comment other than to say that any wrongdoing is vehemently denied.” — AROPL legal counsel
- “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.” — Chief Superintendent Gareth Wrigley
Next Steps
Police will maintain safeguarding measures for the 56 children at Webb House and keep heightened patrols in the area.
