Four staff members from Leeds City Council’s planning department have been arrested as part of a police investigation into suspected corruption.
Five others have been arrested as part of a police probe into suspected bribery offences.
A spokesperson for Leeds City Council said: “The council is aware of an investigation that is being carried out by West Yorkshire Police’s Economic Crime Unit.
“We can confirm that four members of council staff have been arrested. The staff were subsequently suspended from their roles at the council in line with our established policies and procedures.
“As the police investigation is ongoing, we are unable to comment further.”
A West Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “Our Economic Crime Unit is conducting a complex investigation into reported corruption offences in West Yorkshire.
“Nine people, including four Leeds City Council staff members, have been arrested on suspicion of bribery offences.
“All nine people have been bailed pending further enquiries.”
For legal reasons commenting is suspended on this article.
John Baron
Editor