Six people have been arrested following a large-scale police operation targeting a religious group in Cheshire over serious allegations including modern slavery, forced marriage, and sexual offences.
More than 500 officers took part in coordinated raids at তিনটি locations in Crewe on Wednesday morning, as part of an ongoing investigation into the group known as the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light (ARPOL).
According to Cheshire Police, the তদন্ত began last month after reports surfaced بشأن alleged crimes said to have occurred in 2023. The allegations centre on one woman who was a member of the group at the time.
Authorities confirmed that four men and two women were arrested, with nationalities including American, Mexican, Italian, Spanish, and British.
Police activity was concentrated around King George V playing fields and nearby এলাকাগুলো such as Victoria Avenue, close to Queens Park, where roads were temporarily closed. Officers searched তিনটি buildings, including Webb House, as part of evidence-gathering efforts.
Detectives said they are working closely with local authorities to support residents affected by the operation and ensure appropriate safeguarding measures are in place. Cheshire East Council confirmed its involvement, stating that ensuring the safety and support of displaced individuals is a top priority.
Chief Superintendent Gareth Wrigley said the operation followed a “detailed and robust investigation,” stressing that the case is focused on specific allegations and not on the religion itself.
“It is important to make clear that this is not an investigation into the religion, but into serious reported offences,” he said, adding that police treat all allegations of sexual assault with the utmost seriousness.
ARPOL, founded in the early 2000s by followers of Shia Islam, has long been distanced from mainstream Muslim communities. Authorities also clarified that the group is not connected to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, a separate Sunni-rooted movement with a significant presence in the UK.
Local MP Connor Naismith acknowledged that the ঘটনায় residents may feel concerned and called for a thorough and swift investigation to restore calm.
Police reassured the public that there is no wider threat to the community, though an increased presence will remain in the area to support ongoing searches and provide reassurance.
Anyone with information related to the case has been urged to contact Cheshire Police as investigations continue.