TWO people have been arrested in Bolton as part of a national operation to crack down on suspected animal rights activists.

The man and woman were questioned by detectives probing the fraudulent use of Government cash.

The couple were bailed without charge, pending further inquiries.

Officers also visited another address in the town, but did not arrest the elderly woman homeowner.

The police investigation is being carried out by the National Crime Squad. Detectives arrested nine other people across the country, including in Wigan and Manchester.

The police investigation is centred on an alleged fraud against the Department for Education and Skills.

Detectives believe tens of thousands of pounds have been illegally obtained from the Individual Learning Account Programme, which was set up to encourage people to study outside the standard educational system. Neil Giles, Assistant Chief Constable with the National Crime Squad, praised the help of the Greater Manchester Police officers involved in the operation.