Five Bulgarians Convicted in Largest UK Benefits Fraud Case

The group stole over £50 million through fraudulent Universal Credit claims, marking the biggest scam in the history of England and Wales.

The fraud involved creating fake identities and submitting forged documents to make false benefit claims.
Authorities uncovered 'benefit factories' in London, which facilitated the fraud by helping applicants obtain National Insurance numbers.
The gang persisted with rejected claims, resubmitting them until they were approved, significantly exploiting taxpayer funds.
The Crown Prosecution Service and the Department for Work and Pensions collaborated closely, leading to the successful convictions.
Sentencing for the convicted individuals is scheduled for May 28, 2024.