Full Breakdown
Police Raid Targets Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light Headquarters in Crewe
4/29/2026, 9:12:34 PM
Police Raid on AROPL Headquarters
On 29 April 2026, Cheshire Police and neighbouring forces executed three warrants at the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light (AROPL) headquarters, known as Webb House, a former orphanage in Crewe. Over 500 officers took part, and six suspects—four men and two women of various nationalities—were arrested on suspicion of serious sexual offences, forced marriage and modern slavery alleged to have occurred in 2023. Webb House houses roughly 150 adults and children, including 56 home-schooled children. AROPL, founded in Iraq, operates in about 40 countries and moved to Crewe in 2021 after leaving Sweden, where immigration officials had issued deportation orders. The movement claims about 7,000 contacts worldwide.
Official Statements and Responses
Chief Superintendent Gareth Wrigley said the raid stemmed from a “detailed and robust investigation” and targets individuals, not the faith. A police spokesperson said safeguarding measures are in place with the local authority. Labour MP Connor Naismith called for a thorough, impartial inquiry. AROPL’s lawyer denied wrongdoing, stating the group “vehemently denies” the allegations.
Criticism and Opposition
The lawyer’s denial opposes police findings. Earlier Swedish immigration probes and a Home Office review of AROPL’s visa use have already raised questions about the group’s operations.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
Sources differ on the arrest count—some cite an “unknown” total, others confirm six suspects—and on nationalities, with some omitting Italian or German suspects. Details on the victim’s location and the exact nature of the alleged offences remain limited.
Verbatim Quotes
- “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.” — Gareth Wrigley, Chief Superintendent, Cheshire Constabulary
- “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.” — Gareth Wrigley, Chief Superintendent, Cheshire Constabulary
- “The allegations are extremely serious and must be investigated fully and without prejudice.” — Connor Naismith, Labour MP for Crewe & Nantwich
- “Our client has no comment other than to say that any wrongdoing is vehemently denied.” — AROPL’s lawyer
What’s Next
Police will continue searches and ask anyone with information to contact the force via the public portal or 101. Safeguarding for the 56 children at Webb House is overseen by local authorities, while the visa inquiry stays open.
