Harlequin Group

On 17 February 2017, the SFO charged David Ames, chairman of the Harlequin Group of companies, with three counts of Fraud by Abuse of Position, contrary to section 1 of the Fraud Act 2006.

The alleged activity occurred between January 2010 and June 2015.

David Ames, 65, from Wickford, Essex, has been requisitioned to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 22 March 2017.

The SFO, together with Essex Police, announced it was investigating the Harlequin Group of companies on 5 March 2013. This investigation continues.

Harlequin investors who invested via a Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) following advice from an Independent Financial Advisor firm which is no longer trading, may be entitled to compensation from the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (“FSCS”). Further details can be found on FSCS’s website.

Omaya Beach Resort

The SFO is aware that the Harlequin Two Rivers development in Dominican Republic is now being marketed as the Omaya Beach Resort and that investors are being offered the opportunity to re-invest.

The SFO cannot comment on individual cases nor respond to every enquiry but investors are strongly advised to seek independent legal advice if they are considering engagement of any kind.

Investors

The SFO would like to thank investors who completed a questionnaire. The online questionnaire is no longer available, however, investors who made investments during the period of January 2010 to June 2015 can register their details with the SFO at hlminvestors@sfo.gsi.gov.uk. If you have any concerns about communicating via email please write to the following address:

The Witness / Victim Care Officer (HLM01)

Serious Fraud Office

2-4 Cockspur Street

London

SW1Y 5BS

The SFO cannot comment on individual cases nor respond to every enquiry but investors may wish to contact their financial advisors and/or seek independent legal advice if they are concerned about their investment.