Immigration officers have launched an investigation into a suspected Middle Eastern money launderer who may be hiding out in Bermuda.

Senior Customs and Police officers on the National Intelligence Bureau have also been briefed about the secret operation into the man's financial dealings.

Details of the surveillance are being kept water-tight and Chief Immigration Officer, Dr. Martin Brewer, was only able to confirm basic reports last night.

The man is known to have arrived in Bermuda several months ago as a visitor staying for a maximum of 21 days. He then applied to remain on the Island for up to six months and immigration officers allowed him to stay.

But now they are investigating claims he may have been part of an international money laundering scam.

Overseas Police forces are already being notified through the National Intelligence Bureau.

And it is believed another Middle Eastern man, who arrived in Bermuda within the last two weeks, may also be suspected of belonging to the same crooked ring.

Dr. Brewer said: "The man who has been here several months is not under arrest.

"There are always people we come across who we keep an eye on. This person is here as a visitor and you could say we are also keeping an eye on him.

"No contact has been made with him and all I can say is that our suspicions surround financial matters.'' CUSTOMS CUS POLICE POL