WHAT HAPPENED: More than 500 police officers conducted a raid on the Islamic Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light (AROPL) headquarters in Crewe, England, resulting in the arrest of sect members over allegations of sex offenses, human trafficking, forced marriage, and modern slavery.
DETAIL: The group, founded in 2018 by Egyptian-American Abdullah Hashem, mixes Shia Islam with beliefs around aliens and the Illuminati. Authorities said the investigation stems from reports made last month involving one female victim, with alleged offenses dating back to 2023. Chief Superintendent Gareth Wrigley said police are treating the allegations with the utmost seriousness. Modern slavery has become a major issue in Britain, with some estimating that there are over 120,000 people living as modern slaves in the country.
KEY QUOTE: “Today’s operation is the outcome of a detailed and robust investigation into reports of serious sexual offenses, forced marriage and modern slavery involving members of a religious group called Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light in Crewe.” – Ch Supt Gareth Wrigley, Cheshire Constabulary
IMPACT: The arrests have prompted a thorough search of the premises, and authorities are working to provide advice and safeguarding to other group members. Nine arrests have been confirmed, all involving foreign nationals with citizenship in the United States, Mexico, Italy, Spain, Sweden, and Egypt. The case underscores the growing issues in Britain with foreign religious sects and migrant communities engaging in modern slavery and sexual exploitation.
Hellbound and Down 