Eight arrested in suspected VAT fraud (From Messenger Newspapers)

Eight arrested in suspected VAT fraud

3:04pm Tuesday 2nd October 2012 in News

EIGHT men have been arrested across Manchester during searches by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) officers investigating a suspected £250,000 VAT fraud.

The men were arrested in Alderley Edge, Altrincham, Chorlton and Urmston as seven domestic premises and two businesses were searched.

Mike O’Grady, Assistant Director of Criminal investigation for HMRC, said: “These arrests follow a year-long investigation by HMRC officers into suspected VAT repayment fraud in the clothing trade in the Greater Manchester area. The protection of taxpayer’s money is our key priority. We will pursue those trying to steal from public finances to line their own pockets so they can be brought to account.”

All have been bailed while enquiries continue.