A MAJOR investigation into housing benefit fraud led to the successful prosecution of two people from Redbridge.

Ahmed Faruque, 45, and Soyef Ahmed were both found guilty of false claims at Barkingside Magistrates Court on Friday (September 18).

Redbridge council recently found a large number of people were declaring false employment details in order to claim Housing Benefit in the borough.

So far, 33 people have been charged and 22 people have pleaded guilty to 24.

A number of further court appearances are scheduled in the next few months.

Faruque of Henley Road, Ilford was sentenced to a 12 month community order and 180 hours of unpaid work.

He must pay the council £7,312 compensation and a £60 victim surcharge.

Ahmed, 51, from Ley Street, Ilford was found guilty and sentenced to a 12 month community order and 120 hours of unpaid work.

He must pay the council £3,285.83 compensation and a £60 Victim Surcharge.

Both men were awarded Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit on the basis that they were living with their partner and that their income was from part time employment.

After close work with the Met Police Financial Investigation Unit, the council established that their declared employer was not legitimately trading and therefore the employment could not be genuine.

Cllr Kam Rai, Cabinet Member for Finance and Support Services, said: “We will absolutely not tolerate fraudsters who exploit the welfare system and place extra pressure on limited resources required by the genuinely needy.

“We have worked hard to root it out and are very pleased the perpetrators are being prosecuted. Our message is clear, if you commit fraud, we will come after you and you will be punished.

“Fraud takes money away from vital frontline services from people that really need them. I strongly encourage residents to continue to help us and anonymously report fraud.”

Residents can call 0800 633 5267 or email whistleblow@redbridge.gov.uk to anonymously report fraud in Redbridge.