UK Police Arrest Nine in Sect Raids Over Slavery

British police arrested nine members of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light (AROPL) during raids on its headquarters in Crewe, Cheshire. The operation involved around 500 officers executing warrants at three addresses: Webb House, a former orphanage now serving as AROPL's headquarters, and properties on Nantwich Road and Badger Avenue.

According to The Guardian, six men and three women were taken into custody on suspicion of modern slavery, forced marriage, sexual assault, rape, and human trafficking. The arrests occurred during coordinated raids involving officers from neighboring forces that began at approximately 08:50 BST. Additionally, a further 13 people were arrested on suspicion of public order offences, which do not relate to the investigation.

Cheshire Police received allegations in March from a woman who had been part of the group. The alleged offenses occurred in 2023 while she was a member. Chief Superintendent Gareth Wrigley stated that the investigation focuses on serious allegations reported to them, not the religion itself. As reported by The Guardian, AROPL is a religious sect that blends tenets of Islam with conspiracy theories and claims its leader can perform miracles.

AROPL moved its headquarters to Crewe in 2021 from Sweden, where immigration authorities had revoked residency permits for dozens of its members. The group has faced persecution in several countries, including Malaysia, Egypt, and Algeria. About 150 people live at the headquarters, including 56 children who are home-schooled.

Lawyers representing AROPL denied any wrongdoing and stated that members' immigration statuses are lawful. The group has been investigated by the Home Office over its use of skilled worker visas. Local authorities have taken measures against AROPL, including a formal ban in Malaysia and detention of members in Egypt and Algeria.