A complaint over a regional newspaper story about a man convicted of benefit fraud has been resolved by the PCC.

Javid Akhtar complained about an article published in the Yorkshire Evening Post on 11 February, saying it was inaccurate and intrusive.

The article, published in print and online, concerned his conviction for benefit fraud and the benefits he went on to claim after being released from prison.

In response to the complaint, the newspaper explained its grounds for reporting the story as it had done, but accepted Mr Akhtar’s position.

The complaint was resolved when the PCC negotiated the publication of the following clarification and its inclusion in the online article:

“An article in the Yorkshire Evening Post of February 11 headlined ‘Leeds fraud duo back on benefits’ stated that benefit fraudster Javid Akhtar – jailed after pocketing £225,000 in the biggest benefit fraud case of its kind in Leeds – had failed to pay back £265,000 in compensation and court costs.

“We are happy to clarify that Mr Akhtar had, in fact, repaid the compensation and costs. The outstanding £206,000 owed under the Proceeds of Crime Act is owed by his brother Mr Banaras Ali.

“The article also referred to the ownership of a house in West Park Avenue. We would like to make clear that Mr Akhtar is the sole owner of the property in question and he says that it is not on the market in order to pay any court fees or compensation order.”