A 28-YEAR-OLD from Belper has been arrested on suspicion of fraud and money laundering.
More than £75,000 of taxpatyers money is believed to be involved in the case, which saw officers from HM Revenue and Customs raid two houses on Tuesday morning.
The arrested man was questioned by criminal investigators and bailed until February.
An HMRC spokesman said two residential properties and two vehicles in Belper were searched and paperwork, computers and mobile phones seized.
He was arrested on alleged offences of Cheating the Public Revenue contrary to Common Law and money laundering offences under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.
Gary Lampon, Assistant Director of Criminal Investigation for HMRC, said:
"This action sends a firm message to anyone involved or considering fraud against HMRC – your time is up. We are working relentlessly to combat those involved in tax evasion and fraud and bring them before the courts. With over £10 billion being stolen from UK finances each year by criminals involved in the hidden economy its serious crime which we are determined to eradicate."
He added: "We would encourage anyone with information regarding tax evasion and fraud to contact the Customs Hotline on 0800 59 5000. Calls can be made anonymously."