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Police have arrested a number of people at the headquarters of a religious group after investigating reports of several serious offences, forced marriage and modern slavery.

Cheshire Police arrested an unknown number of people as part of an investigation into the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light in Crewe. The force was made aware in March of allegations of serious sexual offences, forced marriage and modern slavery, reported to have taken place in 2023.

All of the offences involved one victim, a woman, who was a member of the group at the time the offences occurred.

More than 500 officers from Cheshire Police and neighbouring forces took part in an operation at 8.50am on Wednesday. Police conducted three warrants in Crewe, including Webb House - a former orphanage and NHS hospital on Victoria Avenue that currently serves as the religious group’s headquarters. 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 and make sure appropriate safeguarding measures are in place.

Chief superintendent Gareth Wrigley, of Cheshire Constabulary, said: “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."

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