Hamilton FC loses 'substantial amount of money' in 'elaborate fraud'

Hamilton Football Club's confirmed it's lost a substantial amount of money after it was the victim of an elaborate fraud.

In a statement the club said Police are now investigating and in the mean time directors will inject cash to meet the club's ongoing financial obligations.

They have also asked fans to remain calm as they work through one of the most difficult situations the club has ever faced.

A spokesperson said: "Hamilton Academical FC have been the target of an elaborate fraud resulting in the loss of a substantial sum of monies.

"The Police Service Scotland and our Bank are working closely with the club conducting a criminal investigation to pursue those individuals responsible.

"At this point it is imperative that we remain calm and work together as we go through one of the most difficult situations we have faced as a club.

"In the interim, the Directors intend to inject funds to meet the club's ongoing obligations until the investigation is complete to ensure continuity.

"It is our intention to host a media briefing to go into more detail when the initial legal and banking investigations reveal the facts. This will allow us to give full disclosure of the event.

"No further comment will be made at this time as the Police investigation continues."

Neil Doncaster, chief executive of the SPFL, said: “Hamilton Academical have informed us that they have been the victim of a sophisticated financial fraud and that Police Scotland are carrying out an investigation.

“This is clearly a very serious and unfortunate situation and everyone in the game will hope it can be resolved quickly. We will be monitoring the situation closely and working in conjunction with Hamilton Academical in the days and weeks ahead.

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