DETECTIVES are investigating a finance firm following complaints from some of its clients.
The Northumbria Police probe centres on the Washington Mortgage Centre, based at the town's Galleries shopping complex.
The business recently closed and officers are looking into allegations of financial irregularities.
Searches have been carried out today (Wednesday January 30) at a house and offices.
Detectives are urging investors who have had dealings with the firm to get in touch.
Detective Inspector Steve Wouldhave said: "We have received a number of allegations of financial irregularity relating to investments made through the Washington Mortgage Centre over a number of years.
"Our investigations are at an early stage and it is too soon to give further details in terms of the sums of money involved or the number of people affected.
"I would like to appeal for anyone who has been involved financially with the Washington Mortgage Centre and who has any concerns to contact one of our officers on the 101 non-emergency number."
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