Three arrested in University of Greater Manchester fraud probe

Three people have been arrested as part of an investigation into alleged financial irregularities at the University of Greater Manchester, including allegations of fraud, money laundering and bribery. 

Two men in their 60s and one woman in her 50s are being questioned in police custody, as Greater Manchester Police’s major incident team continues its probe into an alleged £1 million of “fraudulent activity”.

All three have been arrested on suspicion of money laundering. The men have also been arrested on suspicion of fraud and one of the men is additionally being held on suspicion of bribery.

It follows raids on five properties – two in Bolton, one in Lancashire, one in Humberside, and one in West Yorkshire – a year on from reports by local news outlet the Manchester Mill described alleged financial misconduct at the university. 

Assistant chief constable Rick Jackson, who leads on crime, intelligence and forensics at the police department, said: “This is a key development in this significant and complex investigation which is seeing our detectives conduct painstaking work. This is a lengthy operation, and we are following every line of enquiry to ensure we are in a position to compile the strongest possible evidence for a potential prosecution.

“The investigation has become an even more complex picture since the allegations were first brought to our attention a year ago. We are ensuring that we have targeted phases focussing on each of the separate elements so that each strand is progressed methodically and thoroughly.”

Jackson continued: “The action today relates to one key strand of that investigation, and we are working closely with the CPS with a view to providing an initial file of evidence for their advice before the end of the year.

“We don’t lose sight of the fact that at the heart of this are students whose university experience has been impacted by money that should’ve been invested in their education instead allegedly being used for personal gain.

“We are continuing to engage with all relevant parties so that all necessary action can be taken in relation to any suspected criminality and to support those at the university potentially impacted by this case.”

Formerly known as the University of Bolton, the post-92 institution changed its name in 2024. It currently teaches around 11,000 students, and is led by interim vice-chancellor Greg Walker who stepped in when George Holmes was suspended amid the police investigation. 

Labour MP for Bolton West, Phil Brickell, said of the arrests: “These are serious developments. Bolton needs a strong university with good governance working in the town’s best interests, which can command the confidence of my constituents, of students and of staff. I'll continue to liaise with the university, the Office for Students and the Department for Education as the investigation continues.

“I am grateful for the work Greater Manchester Police is undertaking and will not be commenting further.”

georgia.luckhurst@timeshighereducation.com