UK Serious Fraud Office Investigates Multi-Million-Pound Fraud Against Bankrupt Thurrock Council

The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has launched an investigation into alleged multi-million-pound fraud committed against Thurrock Council, which was effectively declared bankrupt in 2022. Between 2016 and 2020, Thurrock Council invested millions in solar farm bonds sold by Rockfire Investment Finance Plc and other companies within the Rockfire Group, promising returns of 3-6% plus the return of the initial investment. The Rockfire Group has since entered liquidation, and the council has already recouped over £650 million but still faces significant losses, leading to council tax increases and spending cuts. The SFO has issued Section 2 notices compelling financial institutions to provide information to aid the investigation, which is supported by Essex Police and Thurrock Council. Separate civil proceedings against Rockfire and its former director are ongoing, while the council pursues further claims to recover lost public funds. Local officials have welcomed the investigation as a crucial step toward justice and accountability for the community.