Man Banned from Unsupervised Contact with Children
A man arrested following modern slavery raids linked to a religious group has been prohibited from having unsupervised contact with children.
Sajid Khokhar was the 11th individual detained in connection with sexual offence allegations involving members of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light in Crewe. He has been subjected to an interim Slavery and Trafficking Risk Order (STRO).
The 48-year-old British national was arrested on 7 May on suspicion of human trafficking offences and was subsequently released on conditional bail.
The STRO application concerning Khokhar was approved at Chester Magistrates' Court. Cheshire Police stated the order will "ensure there is no risk to the public and other members of the group."
Details of the Investigation and Arrests
Investigators reported that the alleged offences, which also include forced marriage allegations, occurred in 2023 and involved one woman who was a member of the group at that time.
Initially, seven men and three women were arrested during the raids. All have since been released on conditional bail.
Police Statement and Court Proceedings
Chief Superintendent Gareth Wrigley commented on the case:
"I welcome the granting of this order, and I hope that they provide some reassurance to the local community.
"I would also like to reiterate that this is not an investigation into the religion, our investigation solely focuses on the serious allegations which have been reported to us."
Conditions of the Slavery and Trafficking Risk Order
Under the terms of the STRO, Khokhar is banned from having unsupervised contact with children. Additionally, he must surrender any passport, national identity card, or other travel documents issued in his name to a constable within 24 hours of the order's approval.
The case has been adjourned, and Khokhar is scheduled to appear in court again on 11 September.
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