The Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light moved into a former orphanage in Crewe, Cheshire, in 2021. Its American-born leader, Abdullah Hashem, claims to be the Mahdi, a messianic figure regarded in Islam as the saviour of mankind.
Earlier this year, around 500 police officers raided the organisation’s headquarters as part of an investigation into allegations of forced marriage, modern slavery and sexual offences.
In this episode of BBC News: Behind the Investigation, journalists Hayley Mortimer and Emir Nader explain how they investigated the group’s journey from Egypt to Germany, Sweden and ultimately the UK. They discuss the beliefs of the movement, its controversial leader, the disappearance of a former member, and the challenges of reporting on a new religious movement.
To hear the full investigation, search for File on 4 Investigates on BBC Sounds or wherever you get your podcasts.
Background to the police investigation:
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