Staffordshire student accommodation scam under investigation

The Serious Fraud Office believe investors may have been the victim of a suspected international fraud and money laundering operation

The Serious Fraud Office say investigations continue
Author: Adam SmithPublished 29th Sep 2021
Last updated 29th Sep 2021

Cleveland Police this week led a series of dawn raids as part of an investigation into the Alpha and Green Park group of companies - which is likely to involve many investors from abroad as well as the UK.

On Wednesday a string of properties were searched and one suspect interviewed, as well as a number of section two notices served to force businesses to provide relevant information.

The Alpha-branded companies are accused of misleading investors into buying leaseholds for student accommodation in Leicestershire, Lancashire, Staffordshire and West Yorkshire, while the Green Park branded firms are suspected of the same scheme but linked to holiday homes in Devon.

It is alleged that Alpha and Green Park branded companies sold investments into leasehold units between 2014 and 2019, promising investors eight to 10 per cent returns on their investment over the first 10 years.

More than 1,500 investors from around 50 different countries invested an estimated £150 million into the leasehold schemes on the back of these guaranteed returns, but all stopped receiving any profits in 2018.

The directors of the companies are claimed to have made around £20 million.

Mick Gallagher, SFO chief investigator said: "Thousands of ordinary people lose their pensions or life savings on risky schemes while those at the top line their own pockets and enjoy a lavish lifestyle.

"The Serious Fraud Office is committed to delivering justice for victims of fraud and corruption.

"We invite anyone who believes they have a connection with our investigation to come forward."

The SFO said investigators will contact UK-based investors and ask them to fill out a questionnaire by November 30.

Hear the latest news from across Staffordshire and Cheshire on the hour, every hour, on 102.6FM, 96.9FM & 96.4FM. You can also listen on DAB, smart speaker, at signal1.co.uk and on the Signal 1 app