The Metropolitan Police has initiated an investigation into potential fraud offenses within the Post Office concerning the Horizon IT scandal.
This investigation follows accusations against over 700 branch managers, previously implicated due to discrepancies caused by faulty accounting software that falsely indicated missing funds.
Recent developments, including the airing of an ITV drama, have led to an additional 50 potential victims stepping forward.
According to Neil Hudgell, a lawyer representing claimants, these individuals seeking advice include former sub-postmasters prosecuted by the Post Office.
The Metropolitan Police specified that potential fraud offenses might be linked to funds recovered from sub-postmasters as a result of prosecutions or civil actions. This inquiry, ongoing since January 2020, is exploring potential offenses of perjury and perverting the course of justice related to Post Office investigations and prosecutions.
Though two individuals have been interviewed under caution, no arrests have been made thus far.
The Horizon IT scandal spans the period between 1999 and 2015, impacting over 700 sub-postmasters. The faulty Horizon system led to allegations of wrongdoing against these individuals.
The Post Office, while encouraging appeals from those who believe they were wrongly convicted, refrains from commenting on ongoing police investigations.
Many sub-postmasters suffered dire consequences, with some wrongfully imprisoned, facing financial ruin, and social ostracization. The miscarriage of justice prompted an ongoing public inquiry, resulting in the overturning of 93 convictions, with only 27 individuals reaching full settlements out of these cases.
The recent ITV drama, centered around Alan Bates' struggle against the Post Office, has sparked renewed interest and encouraged new cases to emerge. Neil Hudgell noted that the drama brought to light the trauma endured by these sub-postmasters, motivating more to step forward.
Alan Bates himself expressed that the drama rekindled public awareness and support for the campaign. Despite the progress, bureaucratic hurdles continue to delay compensation payments, impacting many claimants who have passed away without receiving justice.
Actors involved in the drama shared their insights, acknowledging the shocking yet straightforward nature of the scandal—a system error resulting in widespread suffering. Actress Julie Hesmondhalgh praised the overwhelming response to the show and the hope it brought for justice.
Various compensation schemes have been established, although concerns persist regarding delays in disbursing payments. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak affirmed the government's commitment to providing support and expediting the compensation process.
Amid ongoing inquiries and investigations, the Post Office emphasized its cooperation with the independent inquiry to uncover the truth behind past mishaps and ensure accountability. Photo by Oxyman, Wikimedia commons.