Tax fraud shame of online businessman

Kamran Saghir’s e-Bay firm raked in a remarkable £43,000 profit over three years, with a turnover of £209,490.

But suspicious HMRC investigators became involved and found he had neglected to pay £10,771 in income tax and national insurance.

When confronted, the 38-year-old, of Neapsands Close, Fulwood, Preston, admitted being knowingly being concerned in the fraudulent evasion of income tax and failing to pay contributions in a hearing at Preston Crown Court.

Prosecuting, Jamie Baxter said the loss to the treasury, over a period between April 2011 and June 2014, was £10,1771

He said: “In addition to the defendant’s employment with Royal Mail - it became apparent to HMRC that he may also be operating an online e-Bay business, called GOONIES1946, which involved the sale of a range of products to consumers including hair products, makeup and suchlike.

"Throughout the indictment period the business made a total of 5,794 sales resulting in a gross turnover of £209,490.”

In an interview Saghir said it was a hobby he became obsessed with.

Judge Sara Dodd, suspending five month sentence for 12 months, said: “Figures you made were remarkable, in excess of £40,000.

“To your credit as it shows you have business accumen however you have a duty to pay your taxes."

It is understood Saghir, who had worked for Royal Mail for around 20 years, was made redundant some time ago.