Sharjeel Iqbal used his position as an NHS finance worker to steal the identities of 59 midwives, nurses, cardiologists and other NHS staff who were genuinely due tax refunds. He submitted claims without their knowledge and diverted the money to his own bank accounts.

Iqbal attempted to claim £40,277 in faked self assessment repayments on behalf of non-existent clients between 2012 and 2013. However, HMRC withheld £14,308 after detecting suspicious activity linked to his accountancy business and some of the hijacked identities.

During the time the fraud took place, Iqbal was the director of his own accountancy practices: R T Roberts & Co Ltd, and TNC Associates Ltd, which then became ATT Associates, trading from premises on St Helens Road, Bolton.

Iqbal was arrested in early morning raids by HMRC in November 2014. HMRC searched his home and business premises and seized laptops, business records and mobile phones for forensic examination. Officers also discovered a significant amount of cash, which has been detained, and will now form part of proceedings to confiscate his criminal profits.

Sandra Smith, assistant director, fraud investigation service, HMRC, said: ‘This was a well-organised, professional attempt to manipulate the UK tax system for personal gain. As an accountant, Iqbal was in a position of trust and well aware that he was breaking the law.

‘He stole personal data, forged signatures on tax repayment documents, submitted false claims and paid the refunds into his own bank accounts. It was an appalling plan to steal from doctors, nurses and UK taxpayers that HMRC intercepted. He now has a criminal record and his professional reputation is ruined.’

At Bolton Crown Court Iqbal was jailed for 21 months after pleading guilty at a previous court hearing.