A MAN from Dorset has been arrested on suspicion of being involved in a national £200,000 fraud scam.

The 32-year-old man from Dorchester was one of six people arrested across the country on suspicion of being involved in an estimated £200,000 Self Assessment fraud.

Five people from the West Midlands, aged between 31 and 44, were also arrested.

They have all been released on bail until December 2015.

Detectives from HMRC swooped on five different addresses yesterday morning as investigations continue into the fraud, and the six were arrested on suspicion of claiming false repayments on their self assessment returns between 2011 and 2015.

The man from Dorchester was arrested at an address in the county town.

Share article Richard Wentel, Assistant Director, Criminal Investigation, HMRC, said: “This action sends a firm message to anyone involved in or considering fraud against HMRC. We will not hesitate to investigate those suspected of stealing money from vital public services.

“Anyone with information about people who may be involved in tax fraud can contact the Tax Evasion Hotline on 0800 788 887.”