The Metropolitan Police has launched a criminal investigation into Reform UK’s funding following allegations regarding illegal donations raised by an undercover sting operation.
The Met confirmed on Wednesday, 9 September 2026, that the inquiry is being handled by its Special Enquiry Team. This new probe has been integrated into a pre-existing investigation, active since February 2025, which originally focused on donations made prior to the 2024 general election.
The development follows an undercover report by Channel 4 News and the investigative group Verbatim, which was broadcast on 3 September. Two senior Reform UK figures—Chief of Staff Dan Jukes and Head of Policy James Orr—have since resigned from their positions.
Allegations of impermissible donations
The investigation centres on potential offences under the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (PPERA). This legislation governs how UK political parties receive and report financial support, including strict rules against accepting money from “impermissible” or foreign sources.
It is alleged that the sting involved discussions regarding an “impermissible donor” paying £30,000 to cover polling costs for the benefit of the party.
Detectives are now working to obtain full, unedited footage from the broadcasters to assist with their inquiries.
Party response and legal status
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has denied any wrongdoing, stating that the party has not accepted any “dodgy money”. The party has indicated it will fully co-operate with the police investigation.
As of 9 September 2026, the Metropolitan Police confirmed that no arrests have been made and no individuals have been interviewed under caution in relation to the latest allegations.
The investigation remains ongoing, and the Met has not yet indicated a timeline for when its findings will be submitted for further legal review. Under PPERA, breaches related to donations can result in significant fines for political organisations, while individuals found to have knowingly facilitated illegal funding can face criminal charges.
