Police operation - Webb House, Crewe (April 2026)
On 29 April 2026, Cheshire Police undertook a major operation in Crewe as part of an investigation following reports of serious offences alleged to have involved members of a religious group called the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light.
The Police conducted three warrants in Crewe, including Webb House, along with two other properties on Nantwich Road and Badger Avenue, and have, to date, made 12 arrests in relation to the allegations.
Cheshire East Council is continuing to support people affected by the operation. Our priority is to ensure that those people who have been displaced are safe and supported. We anticipate this work will continue for some time.
We will keep this page updated with the latest information we are able to share.
Statement from the Leader of the Council
Leader of the Council, Councillor Nick Mannion, made the following statement at the Annual General Meeting of Cheshire East Council on 13 May 2026:
“I am sure everyone will appreciate that the work the Council is currently undertaking is sensitive.
“We continue to support people affected following the major police operation, but today I cannot give you details of the work our staff are undertaking as they carry out our safeguarding responsibilities with children and adults.
“I want to thank all of our staff who are supporting this work. I am sure I speak on behalf of all councillors when I say thank you for everything you are doing. Those providing support to individuals, those working nights and weekends, those coordinating this activity and providing administrative support.
“Now I want to speak to our residents, particularly those who live near to Webb House and in Crewe.
“I know that some of you will be worried and concerned, some of you may well be angry, some of you may be frightened. I do understand. I am sorry I can’t share any details with you, because I know you will have lots of questions and you do deserve answers.
“In the coming weeks we will set out the information that we have and that we can share, but in the meantime, I want to reassure you. The Police have assured us that there is no risk to the public. We will continue to do everything we can to protect those who are vulnerable and to support the community to recover. And we will assist the police as they continue their investigations.”
Police statements
Council statements
This page was last updated on: 15 May 2026