Police have executed a series of search warrants as they investigate allegations of suspected fraud and bribery at the University of Greater Manchester.
Greater Manchester Police said that they executed six warrants at seven properties in Greater Manchester and the south of England as part of “initial enquiries” into alleged financial irregularities at the institution, known until recently as the University of Bolton.
No arrests have been made. The university’s vice-chancellor, George Holmes, was suspended in May, along with the provost and another senior member of academic staff.
Police said that they began investigating following reporting in local media and a subsequent investigation by the audit firm PwC, which was commissioned by the university.
“These are the very initial stages of what is set to be a complex and lengthy investigation into serious allegations of fraud and bribery at the University of Greater Manchester,” said assistant chief constable Rick Jackson, the force’s lead for crime, intelligence and forensics.
“Officers have taken action this week to begin gathering available evidence at seven properties we believe are of relevance to our enquiries.”
Police said that they were engaging with the English higher education regulator, the Office for Students, and were in contact with the university to encourage staff and other representatives to provide information that may help the investigation.
Concerns about financial management have been raised in the House of Commons, which heard claims that large sums of money had been paid to “relatives of the university’s managers”, with the case also allegedly involving a company based in Casablanca, Morocco.
“I know there may be concerns from the thousands of people who study and work at the University of GM,” Jackson continued. “The university will continue to receive relevant updates, and we are working with them to encourage anyone with information to contact police.
“Extensive work will continue to ensure all relevant parties are spoken to as part of our investigation, so that all necessary action can be taken in relation to any suspected criminality.”
Holmes is one of the UK’s longest-serving vice-chancellors, having led the institution since 2006. In his absence the university is being led by Greg Walker, the pro vice-chancellor (academic).
Phil Brickell, the MP for Bolton West, said he had called for financial transparency at the University of Greater Manchester “in order to ensure it is best serving the interests of our community”.
“This is a significant development and a concern for the university’s students, employees and everyone across Bolton who should instead be focusing on the immense achievements of students graduating this week.” Brickell said.
“Investigations such as these are complex and lengthy, but I want to take this opportunity to thank Greater Manchester Police for their work.”
A University of Greater Manchester spokesman said: “As there is currently an internal university process and external criminal investigation under way, we are unable to comment or provide any further information at this time.
“We continue to provide any assistance the police require as part of their enquiries and are keeping colleagues and students at the university updated as and when we are able to.”
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