A RECORD number of suspected criminals targeted by the Civil Recovery Unit (CRU) have been referred to tax authorities for further investigation.

In 2013-14 the CRU passed on the details of 42 cases to HM Revenue and Customs, up from a previous high of 33 the year before, as it looks to inflict maximum disruption on gangs.

During its investigations - whether they result in a recovery order for suspected proceeds of crime or not - the unit regularly comes across evidence of untaxed earnings or people who have lifestyles which far exceed their declared income.

HMRC also shares its tax information with the unit.