Three arrested in PSNI fraud investigation linked to a local council

Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Criminal Investigation Department have arrested three individuals as part of an ongoing investigation into suspected fraud linked to a local council body.

The inquiry follows a report received in May 2024 concerning alleged fraudulent activity.

As part of today’s operations, Wednesday 4th March, authorities carried out arrests in both Ballymoney and Derry/Londonderry.

A 39-year-old man was arrested in the Ballymoney area on suspicion of multiple offences, including fraud, bribery, misconduct in public office, money laundering, and forgery.

A 59-year-old man was also detained in the Waterside area of Derry/Londonderry on suspicion of fraud by false representation, bribery, and money laundering offences.

Additionally, a 39-year-old woman was arrested in Ballymoney on suspicion of converting criminal property.

Searches are ongoing at a number of properties connected to the investigation as detectives continue to gather evidence. All three individuals remain in custody at this time.

The PSNI has not released further details on the investigation, but the arrests mark a significant step in what is described as a complex and multi-faceted inquiry into alleged financial misconduct affecting public funds.

At a glance

• Three individuals arrested by PSNI CID in an ongoing fraud investigation.

• Report linked to a local council received in May 2024 triggered the inquiry.

• 39-year-old man in Ballymoney arrested for fraud, bribery, misconduct, money laundering, and forgery.

• 59-year-old man in Derry/Londonderry arrested for fraud by false representation, bribery, and money laundering.

• 39-year-old woman in Ballymoney arrested for converting criminal property.

• Property searches are ongoing in connection with the investigation.

• All three suspects remain in PSNI custody as enquiries continue.