UK watchdog arrests three in insider dealing and money laundering probe

The UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), in collaboration with the National Crime Agency (NCA), conducted a significant operation on October 13, 2026, leading to the arrest of three individuals suspected of involvement in insider dealing and money laundering. The operation targeted an organized criminal group believed to be engaged in these activities.

Over 100 personnel from both agencies participated in searches of five residential properties located in London and Manchester. During these searches, investigators seized more than 30 electronic devices, including mobile phones, laptops, and tablets. The arrested suspects are currently being interviewed by FCA officials at police stations in London and Manchester.

Steve Smart, executive director of enforcement and market oversight at the FCA, emphasized the seriousness of insider dealing, stating, "Insider dealing is a serious threat to the integrity of our markets. Working with partners, we will continue to use all the powers at our disposal to crack down on serious and organised crime groups engaged in market abuse." The FCA highlighted its commitment to fighting financial crime as a priority in its five-year strategy, noting that in the 2025/26 period, it secured four insider dealing convictions, resulting in a total of 11 years of imprisonment, and fined twelve individuals £1.77 million for various market abuses.