Sub-postmaster 'forced' to steal

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A Teesside sub-postmaster has admitted stealing more than £200,000 and handing it over to a man who threatened him.

Ajmair Singh, 35, said he feared for the safety of his family and took the money from two post office branches that he ran in Middlesbrough.

The father-of-four, of Gunnergate Lane, Marton, attempted to hide the missing cash by making false declarations.

Sentencing was adjourned for three months so an investigation under the Proceeds of Crime Act could take place.

Teesside Crown Court heard that Singh had pressure put upon him by a man, who has since disappeared.

He "bitterly regretted" not informing the police, or other members of the Sikh community, and later found out that some of them had also been targeted by the man.

The thefts were uncovered during an internal Post Office audit and Singh admitted responsibility.

With the help of his family, he had repaid £113,000.

Judge Les Spittle said a custodial sentence was inevitable, but under the "unusual circumstances" it could be suspended.

"This theft was not in order to fund a lavish lifestyle, to drive round in big cars or have a large house," he said.

"One normally finds that people stealing substantial amounts of money are doing so for their own benefit.

"You thought your family was under threat and over a period of time you handed over a substantial amount of money."