Accountancy firm employee arrested in connection with €1million theft investigation

The investigation arose following a complain from the company, which related to false expenses claims

An employee at an accountancy firm in Ireland has been arrested in connection with the theft of €1million.

The man, aged in his 30s, was taken into custody by officers from the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau on Monday.

The investigation arose following a complain from the company, which related to false expenses claims.

Gardai have carried out a number of searches since January in connection with the probe.

A large chunk of cash was suspended in bank accounts in two different countries.

A spokeswoman said: “Gardaí attached to the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB) have today, Monday 15th March 2021, arrested a male, aged in his 30s, following allegations of theft at an accountancy firm.

“The arrest was made as part of an investigation following a complaint made by the accountancy firm relating to false claims for expenses by an employee, in excess of €1,000,000. A number of searches were conducted by GNECB since January 2021 following receipt of the complaint.

“A substantial amount of money was frozen in two bank accounts in Ireland and a separate jurisdiction respectively, as part of this investigation.

“The man was arrested today and he is currently detained in Terenure Garda Station under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984.

“Investigations are ongoing.”

The man has since been released without charge. A file will be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.