The Serious Fraud Office is conducting an investigation into allegations of conspiracy to defraud in relation to the sale of four mining sites in South Wales.

On 16 March 2011, eight properties have been searched in connection with this investigation. Seven are residential premises; five of them in South Wales, one in London and one in Birmingham. One business premises in South Wales was also searched.

Five people were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to defraud; three men (ages 65, 36 and 31) in South Wales, one man (47) in London and a woman (28) in Birmingham. Following interview they have been released on bail pending further enquiries.

The operation was conducted with the assistance of South Wales Police, Gwent Police, the Metropolitan Police and West Midlands Police. It involved over 90 SFO investigators and police officers.
 http://www.sfo.gov.uk/press-room/latest-press-releases/press-releases-2011/investigation-into-sale-of-south-wales-mining-sites.aspx