Sandwell Council cleared of wrongdoing following police investigation into land deals

West Midlands Police launched an investigation in October 2014 into claims over 'irregularities' relating to the sale of former council buildings in the borough.

Councillors Mahboob Hussain and Ian Jones had been at the centre of the allegations, which involved the sale of three old public toilets.

They quit their respective roles as the authority's deputy leader and cabinet member for jobs and economy in February 2015.

But following an inquiry West Midlands Police say that no further action will be taken against Sandwell Council after 'insufficient evidence' was found to bring charges. Both Mr Hussain and Mr Jones have always denied any wrongdoing. Mr Jones said: "This has been a torturous period for both me and my family.

"While I am happy that it is now over, with the police telling me that I am of no interest to them, I am furious that the investigation has taken so long."

Mr Hussain said: "I am pleased the police inquiry into Sandwell Council land sales has now been completed. I have no further comment at this stage."

Inspector Jonathan Jones, said: "The West Midlands Organised Crime Unit's investigation into the sale of certain Sandwell Council properties ran from October 2014 and concluded in early February this year.

"The investigation was prompted after serious allegations were reported to police suggesting irregularities regarding the sale of former Sandwell Council properties between June 2012 and September 2014.

"These allegations have been thoroughly investigated and the council has supported our inquiries. However, at this stage there is insufficient evidence to bring charges."

A separate independent investigation initiated by the council has not yet been concluded.

Sandwell Council chief executive Jan Britton said: "The council has cooperated fully throughout the investigation and is satisfied that no further action will be taken by West Midlands Police.

"A separate council investigation into the matter is still ongoing."

The investigation stemmed from allegations that normal processes and procedures were not followed 'in relation to the sale of some redundant public toilets'.

The toilets are believed to be Albert Street, Oldbury, Jervoise Lane in Stone Cross and The Shambles, Wednesbury. Councillor Hussain had previously been the subject of a police investigation over irregularities concerning the sale of the old Smethwick coroner's office in Crocketts Lane.

It led to him standing down as chairman of the council's asset management and land disposal committee. His son, Azeem Hafeez, was arrested as part of a probe in April 2015, but was later released without charge.