Three jailed after HMRC probe into £300k VAT scam

An investigation by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has led to thee men being jailed for their part in a £300,000 VAT scam.

The three men, two from the West Midlands and one from Manchester, who set up bogus companies with the ‘sole intention of committing tax fraud’, were sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court.

The gang, which included the jailed men Annas Bah,Ousman Njai and Pa Modou, set up nine bogus firms including a clothing manufacturer, a publishing house and a software engineering company.

HMRC said the gang would then submit VAT repayment claims from these companies, but there was no evidence of trading.

Adrian Farley, assistant director of criminal investigation for HMRC, said: ‘This case sends a clear message to anyone involved or considering fraud against HMRC – your time is up.

‘We are working relentlessly to combat those involved in tax evasion and fraud and bring them before the courts. With over £10 billion being stolen from UK finances each year by criminals, it is serious crime which we are determined to eradicate.’

HMRC criminal investigators arrested the men in dawn raids in March 2012.