HM Treasury set up new ‘fraud squad’
28 April 2022
The chancellor of the exchequer, Rishi Sunak, announced the formation of a new £25 million ‘fraud squad’ to tackle coronavirus scheme fraudsters on 27 April 2022.
The new body is recruiting top economic crime investigators and data analytic experts. The teams will recover fraudulently claimed covid support scheme funds and look for suspicious companies and people seeking government contracts.
With recruitment expected to start in the coming weeks, the CEO will answer directly to the chancellor and the minister for Brexit opportunities and government efficiency, Jacob Rees-Mogg.
Rishi Sunak said:
“We will chase down fraudsters who rip off the taxpayer. This elite fraud squad, backed by £25 million, will ensure the latest counter fraud techniques are being used to track down these criminals.
People are rightly furious that fraudsters took advantage of our vital Covid support schemes, and we are acting to make sure they pay the price.”
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