Council planning staff arrested over suspected bribery offences

West Yorkshire Police have arrested four Leeds City Council staff members on suspicion of bribery offences.

The police force said the arrests were part of a "complex investigation into reported corruption offences in West Yorkshire".

According to a BBC report, the staff members work within the council's planning department.

Five other people who are not council staff have also been arrested.

The arrests took place between 26 and 28 November.

All nine people have been bailed pending further enquiries.  

A spokesperson for Leeds City Council said the local authority is aware of the investigation.

The statement added: "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."

Adam Carey