Religious group members bailed in modern slavery inquiry
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Bridie Adams
West Midlands
Cheshire Police
About 500 officers were involved in the raids in Crewe on Wednesday
Ten people arrested over allegations of sexual abuse, forced marriage and modern slavery involving a religious group in Cheshire have been released on bail, police have said.
More than 500 police officers were involved in raids at three addresses in Crewe on Wednesday.
Police said the alleged victim, a woman, was a member of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light (AROPL) in 2023.
Seven men and three women have been bailed with conditions. Police said they had applied for slavery and trafficking risk orders against five of the suspects.
AROPL was started by followers of Shia Islam at the start of the century, but its beliefs have been rejected by Shia muslims.
About 150 people are understood to live at its base at Webb House, which was searched by police along with two other properties owned by the group.
Chief Supt Gareth Wrigley said the operation was "not an investigation into the religion", adding: "We are continuing to work closely with our partners to provide the appropriate advice and safeguarding to other members of the group."
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