Three arrested in suspected insider dealing and money laundering
Three individuals were arrested on October 13, 2026, in a joint Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and National Crime Agency (NCA) operation targeting suspected insider dealing and money laundering.
Five premises searched across cities
More than 100 FCA and NCA staff searched five residential premises in London and Manchester during the joint operation on October 13, 2026.
The FCA said the operation targeted a suspected organised criminal group engaged in insider dealing and money laundering.
FCA investigators seized more than 30 mobile phones, laptops and tablets during the searches.
All three arrested individuals were being interviewed by the FCA at police stations in London and Manchester when the statement was published.
The authority described the operation as an effort to disrupt the suspected group.
It said it could not comment further at that time but would provide more information when appropriate.
Enforcement beyond the arrests
Steve Smart, FCA executive director of enforcement and market oversight, said insider dealing threatens market integrity and pledged to use all available powers with partners against organised market abuse.
In 2025/26, the FCA secured four insider dealing convictions; two brought record sentences totalling 11 years of imprisonment.
Twelve people received fines totalling £1.77 million for insider dealing, market manipulation and misleading statements.
Fighting financial crime is a priority in the FCA's five-year strategy.
Suspicions remain under investigation
The FCA described the arrested individuals as suspects, not convicted offenders.
Its stated focus is disrupting organised financial crime to protect market integrity.
Anyone with insider dealing information can report it confidentially through the FCA's reporting form or by calling 0800 111 6768.