A Surbiton man has been arrested on suspicion of money laundering, as part of a multimillion-pound alcohol and VAT fraud.

The 36-year-old is one of 11 men arrested yesterday after revenue officers searched homes and businesses in London, Surrey and elsewhere.

HMRC believe the fraud involved the laundering of £50m in evaded duty and tax, the authority said today.

The man, arrested under the Proceeds of Crime Act, was interviewed by HMRC and and released on bail until the end of June.

Computers, £400,000 in cash and business records were seized in raids at 11 homes and eight business addresses in London, Berkshire, Surrey, East Sussex and Buckinghamshire.

HMRC's John Cooper said: "HMRC will not hesitate to investigate anyone suspected of stealing public funds and laundering the proceeds of criminal activity.

"If you have information about people who may be involved in money laundering, please call the customs hotline on 0800 59 5000."