Salford mayoral candidate Paul Massey under police investigation

Police are investigating money laundering allegations involving Salford mayoral candidate Paul Massey.

Greater Manchester Police said five men, one of whom is understood to be Mr Massey, and a 55-year-old woman were arrested in December.

The arrests were made at addresses in Salford, Oldham, Whitefield and Lowton. All six remain on police bail.

Mr Massey, 52, who is standing as an independent candidate, was not available to comment.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesman said the arrests were part of a police investigation which started in 2011 into irregularities at Salford-based security business 21st Security.

"Six people are under police investigation into money laundering at a Salford-based security firm," he said.

The businessman is one of 10 people in the running to become Salford's first directly elected mayor.

Residents in the city will vote on 3 May.