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Police Arrest Members of “Peace and Light” Religious Group Over Abuse Allegations
A religious organisation known as the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light has come under intense scrutiny after multiple members were arrested in connection with serious allegations of sexual abuse and exploitation within the community.
The group, which is based in Crewe, Cheshire, became the focus of a major police operation on 29 April 2026. Officers from across north-west England carried out coordinated raids on several properties linked to the organisation, including its headquarters at a former orphanage. The operation involved more than 500 officers, underlining the scale and seriousness of the investigation.
Arrests and Allegations
Police confirmed that nine individuals—six men and three women—were arrested on suspicion of a range of offences. These include rape, sexual assault, forced marriage, human trafficking, and modern slavery.
The investigation was launched after a former female member came forward in March 2026 with allegations that she had been raped and sexually abused while living within the group in 2023.
Authorities have stressed that the case centres on alleged criminal behaviour by individuals within the organisation, not the beliefs of the religion itself.
Inside the Community
The Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light is a relatively new religious movement founded in 2015 and led by Abdullah Hashem, who claims spiritual authority within the group.
The community reportedly houses around 150 members, including dozens of children who are educated within the group.
Former members and critics have previously raised concerns about the group’s internal practices, including isolation from wider society and strict control over followers’ lives.
Safeguarding Concerns
Following the arrests, authorities have implemented safeguarding measures for individuals still living within the community, particularly children. Social services and partner agencies are working alongside police to ensure the welfare of residents while the investigation continues.
Police have also reassured the public that there is no wider threat to the community, but have urged anyone with information to come forward.
Group Response
The organisation has denied wrongdoing and maintains that it operates lawfully. As with all criminal investigations, those arrested are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Wider Context
Cases involving alleged abuse within closed or tightly controlled religious groups often raise broader concerns about accountability and safeguarding. Experts note that such environments can sometimes make it difficult for victims to report abuse, particularly where authority figures hold significant influence over members’ lives.
The investigation into the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light remains ongoing, and further developments are expected as police continue their inquiries.
Attached is a news article regarding a religious group called peace and light key members arrest for sexual abuse
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c759n2lnxz0o
Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley
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