Safi Bugel
The Metropolitan Police have confirmed they are investigating potential fraud linked to the Horizon scandal, which led to the wrongful conviction of over 700 Post Office operators between 1999 and 2015. Officers are looking into possible fraud offences related to the financial recoveries from sub-postmasters as a result of these prosecutions.
Two individuals have been interviewed under caution, but no arrests have been made. The investigation focuses on whether the fraud relates to individual staff members or the Post Office as a corporate entity.
The Horizon accounting software, developed by Fujitsu, falsely indicated financial shortfalls, prompting the Post Office to pursue legal action against operators. Many were coerced into repaying money for non-existent losses, leading to bankruptcies and even suicides.
To date, £151 million has been allocated for compensation, yet operators allege that significantly more money was wrongfully reclaimed, contributing to Post Office profits.
The police inquiry began in January 2020 following a referral from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Investigations are also ongoing into two former Fujitsu experts for perjury and perverting the course of justice.
In related news, the airing of ITV’s drama “Mr Bates vs the Post Office” has prompted 50 new potential victims to seek legal advice, with some expressing interest in appealing their convictions. The Criminal Cases Review Commission encourages anyone affected to come forward, especially those who pled guilty or are relatives of deceased sub-postmasters.