The Cheshire Police have arrested a 48-year-old British man on suspicion of human trafficking following an investigation into the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light.
This eleventh arrest follows a massive operation on April 29 involving over 500 officers at the group’s Webb House headquarters in Crewe. Authorities are investigating allegations of modern slavery, forced marriage, and serious sexual offences reported by a former member in March. The suspect has since been released on bail, joining ten others detained last month.
Chester Magistrates’ Court granted interim anti-slavery and trafficking orders against five individuals, including the group’s leader, Abdullah Hashem. These court orders impose strict residency and travel restrictions, preventing the suspects from entering Crewe or contacting the alleged victim.
Furthermore, 25 people were charged with public order offences following the initial raids and are scheduled for court appearances later this year. Detective Superintendent Simon Waller clarified that the investigation focuses on criminal reports rather than the religion itself.