The Domestic Corruption Unit (DCU) has arrested one individual and carried out a number of warrants as part of a joint investigation with the National Health Service Counter Fraud Authority (NHSCFA).

Earlier this month (9 July) officers from the Domestic Corruption Unit, within the City of London Police, carried out two warrants at residential properties in Worcester and Leeds. A third warrant was simultaneously carried out at a business premises also in Leeds.

As a result, one man, aged in his 60s was arrested on suspicion of Fraud by Abuse of Position of Trust, Bribery and Money Laundering. He was interviewed and subsequently released on police bail pending further enquiries.

A second man, also aged in his 60s, voluntarily attended a police station yesterday (30 July) and was questioned in relation to the ongoing investigation.

This action relates to information received by the Domestic Corruption Unit concerning the procurement process for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) supplied to the National Health Service during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020.

A joint investigation was launched in January 2026, after officers received allegations that a former employee within the NHS had allegedly bypassed official procurement processes to supply the £10.3m PPE contract to a known associate and company director.

Detective Superintendent Jim Halkett, Head of the Domestic Corruption Unit, in the City of London Police, said: “This action represents a significant development in an investigation that remains in its early stages. Our officers are working closely with colleagues from the NHS Counter Fraud Authority as we continue to review information and progress our enquiries.

“This is a complex investigation, and we recognise the public interest surrounding it. We are committed to providing updates when it is appropriate and operationally possible to do so.

“However, we would remind everyone that this remains an active investigation. It is important that all those involved are afforded a fair and impartial legal process, and we would ask that speculation is avoided while our enquiries continue.”

The man arrested has been bailed until early October 2026.