British accountant could be extradited

British accountant Philip de Figueiredo could face extradition to Australia as part of an Australian government tax fraud investigation.

The head of Swiss accountancy firm Strachans SA, de Figueiredo was arrested in the Channel Islands tax haven of Jersey in late December. He is thought to be involved in the creation of offshore tax schemes allegedly used by celebrities including Australian actor Paul Hogan.

Officers associated with the Operation Wickenby investigation have lodged extradition papers with the Jersey magistrates court.

Since Operation Wickenby began in 2004, dozens of people have been charged with tax evasion, avoidance and money laundering offences allegedly drawn up by Strachans-controlled entities.

De Figuereido’s barrister Stephen Baker indicated his client would be fighting the charges