Liverpool mayor Joe Anderson has been ‘detained’ by police as part of an investigation which saw five people arrested earlier today, including a man in Ainsdale.
A police statement said: “Five people have been arrested by detectives today (Friday, 4 December) in connection with offences of bribery and witness intimidation as part of an investigation into building and development contracts in Liverpool.
“The arrests are part of an ongoing investigation.
– A 62-year-old man, from Old Swan has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit bribery and witness intimidation.
– A 33-year-old man, from West Derby, has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit bribery and witness intimidation.
– A 46-year-old man, from Ainsdale, has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit bribery and witness intimidation.
– A 25-year-old man, from, Ormskirk, has been arrested on suspicion of witness intimidation.
– A 72-year-old man, from Aigburth, has been arrested on suspicion of witness intimidation.”
Anderson has since been suspended by the Labour party while investigations continue.
Police have conducted a year-long investigation surrounding property developer Elliot Lawless, who was arrested earlier this year.
In March three Elliot Group schemes were placed in administration after allegations of fraud and corruption were made against Lawless, the company’s founder.
In December 2019, Lawless was arrested at the same time as Liverpool council officer Nick Kavanagh, and was questioned on suspicion of conspiracy to defraud, bribery and corruption.
Kavanagh, who was since been suspended from his role as Liverpool Council’s Director of Housing and Regeneration, was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to defraud and misconduct in a public office.
Lawless denies any wrongdoing.
Liverpool City Council says they are cooperating with Merseyside Police and will offer no further comment.