Police investigations are continuing after more than 500 officers took part in coordinated raids connected to a religious group based in Crewe, Cheshire. The operation follows allegations of serious criminal conduct including modern slavery, forced marriage, human trafficking and sexual offences.
Cheshire Police confirmed that ten people – six men and four women – were arrested during three separate raids carried out on Wednesday. The raids form part of a complex investigation into allegations reportedly dating back to 2023, following a complaint made to police last month.
Locations and police activity
Searches were carried out at Webb House, believed to be the group’s headquarters, as well as properties on Nantwich Road and Badger Avenue, all understood to be owned by the organisation. Officers remain at the locations conducting further searches and supporting local residents affected by the operation.
Earlier in the day, around 50 people gathered outside Middlewich custody suite, where some of those arrested were being held, with police maintaining a visible presence to manage the situation.
Nature of the allegations
The investigation concerns the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light (ARPOL), a group established in the early 2000s with origins linked to Shia Islam, though its beliefs have been publicly rejected by mainstream Shiism.
Police are investigating allegations that include:
- Serious sexual offences
- Modern slavery and exploitation
- Forced marriage
- Human trafficking
It has been reported that around 150 people live communally within the group, with children being home educated. At this stage, police have emphasised that the investigation relates to allegations only, and no findings of guilt have been made.
Cheshire Police have stated they are working closely with partner agencies to ensure appropriate safeguarding and support measures are in place for anyone who may be at risk.
What happens next?
Those arrested have been detained for questioning while enquiries continue. Investigations of this scale are often lengthy, particularly where allegations involve organised abuse, coercive control, or exploitation over extended periods.
Police have not confirmed whether further arrests may follow.
If an investigation does lead to charges and a conviction, the consequences can be extremely serious.
- Modern slavery and human trafficking offences can carry life imprisonment, unlimited fines, and the confiscation of assets.
- Forced marriage is a criminal offence and can result in up to 7 years in prison.
- Serious sexual offences may lead to long prison sentences (in some cases life), placement on the Sex Offenders Register, and ongoing restrictions under Sexual Harm Prevention Orders.
- Where children are involved, courts can also impose long‑term safeguarding orders, permanent bans on working with children, and even remove parental responsibility.
These outcomes can have life‑changing consequences well beyond any criminal sentence.
As with any investigation of this nature, it is important to stress that all allegations remain unproven and those arrested are entitled to the presumption of innocence. However, cases involving allegations of exploitation, coercion and abuse are treated with the utmost seriousness by the police and courts.
Get In Touch
Rachel Fletcher is Managing Partner and Head of our Crime and Regulatory team. She has specialised in private crime and regulatory cases and has advised individuals, director and corporations under investigation from the GMC, The Environment Agency, The General Pharmaceutical Council, Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy and local councils.
If you would like to speak with Rachel or another member of our Crime and Regulatory team about the above topic, or any other related investigation, please call 0330 111 3131 or complete our online contact form.
