The Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light (AROPL)

 The Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light (AROPL) is a fringe, millenarian new religious movement with roots in Shia Islam, founded by Abdullah Hashem in 2015. The group, often described as a cult by critics, holds unorthodox beliefs, including reincarnation and that their leader is the "true and legitimate pope" and representative of the Mahdi.

Key Details Regarding the AROPL:

• Leader: Led by Egyptian-American Abdullah Hashem, who claims a messianic role.
• Headquarters: Based in Crewe, UK, in a former orphanage ("Webb House"), housing around 150 members.
• Beliefs: AROPL combines elements of Islam with esoteric doctrines, including belief in the reincarnation of souls, that the Ka'aba is in Petra (not Mecca), and that alcohol is permitted in moderation. They are not affiliated with the mainstream Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.
• Controversy & 2026 Police Raid: In April 2026, UK police launched a massive investigation into the group, arresting nine people following allegations of serious sexual offences, forced marriage, and modern slavery, reported by the BBC and The Guardian.
• Previous History: The group was formerly based in Egypt and Sweden, with Swedish authorities revoking residence permits for many members before they moved to the UK in 2021.

Important Distinction: The Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light is entirely separate from the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, a globally established Ahmadi movement founded in the 19th century that strictly practices within the tenets of Islam