Police are raiding premises in Douglas and Onchan today in connection with a suspected ?21million VAT and money laundering fraud.

A major operation across four jurisdictions is taking place, with officers from the Manx force today executing six warrants. One person has been arrested locally and a number of related arrests made in the UK and Guernsey. Cheshire Constabulary is also involved in the operation.

Inspector Derek Flint said: 'The public are advised that there will be considerable police activity in and around Hill Street in Douglas and Manor Park in Onchan. They should not be alarmed to see officers from HM Revenue & Customs and the National Crime Agency who are supporting the searches on the Isle of Man.

'A considerable number of staff have been deployed to the various addresses with a view to minimising the time it takes to search each address and reduce the impact on businesses and staff in and around those premises.'

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