This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Find out more here.  
  • Delicious




HMRC Acts On Identity Theft, Tax Credit Fraud

by Jason Gorringe, Tax-News.com, London

25 October 2006

Three fraudsters who stole 37 identities in the UK and attempted to unlawfully obtain GBP357,000 in tax credits were sentenced to a collective prison term of ten and a half years on Monday.

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) officers caught Miss Adesola Adelana, Mr. Stephen Ayankoya and Miss Adetutu Olowe in 2004 after a lengthy investigation. The three pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud HMRC at Southwark Crown Court.

HMRC investigations revealed eleven fraudulent bank accounts, eight forged driving licenses and nine credit cards obtained with the stolen identities. Of the 37 hijacked National Insurance numbers, 28 were stolen from female victims, while nine were male.

David Etheridge, the HMRC Assistant Chief Investigation Officer observed that:

"This sentencing sends a clear message to criminals that HMRC is committed to tackling fraud. We have robust procedures in place to identify abuse of the tax credits system and prosecution will always be pursued."

.

 

 






Write a comment