Nine arrests for "suspicious betting activity" in Britain

The UK mainstream media have been having a field day with allegations of “suspicious betting” and the arrest of nine men.

Although the police have been careful to identify those arrested only by their ages, the newspapers have claimed that the father and uncle of famous footballer Wayne Rooney, along with top football player Steve Jennings, are among those under investigation.

Further confirmation came from Stewart Regan, chief executive of the Scottish Football Association, who released a statement saying that the Association had received notification from the UK Gambling Commission that Motherwell player Jennings had been arrested at his home by Merseyside Police.

“This follows extensive enquiries in relation to alleged betting irregularities at a Scottish Premier League match between Motherwell and Hearts on December 14, 2010,” said Regan. “While the investigation involves several other individuals out with Scotland, it is important to stress that the evidence gathered throughout this thorough period of investigation has involved only one Scottish match.

“Motherwell is aware of the situation and will issue a response in due course. The Scottish Football Association will make no further comment at this stage.”

The Gambling Commission confirmed the incident, referring interested parties to the rather bland and careful website of the Merseyside Police, which disclosed:

“Detectives have today executed warrants at 10 addresses across Merseyside and Glasgow and arrested nine men as part of an investigation into suspicious betting activity

“The arrests are the culmination of a joint operation with the Gambling Commission and the nine who have been arrested for conspiracy to defraud are being interviewed by detectives.”

http://www.merseyside.police.uk/index.aspx?articleid=10987