prosecuted for involvement in the pyramid schemes which swept across the Island earlier this year, The Royal Gazette can reveal.

Mr. Tokunbo, who has responsibility for criminal prosecutions, refused last night to say if he had decided to press charges against those involved in the get-rich-quick schemes.

He would only say that he had returned the file to the Police.

But a Police spokeswoman said last night: "The file came back from the DPP and the recommendation is that we don't prosecute.'' In February, Police Commissioner Jean-Jacques Lemay issued a statement saying: "The Attorney General's Chambers has expressed the view that the pyramid schemes contravene the Lotteries Act 1944 and the Criminal Code of 1905.'' No prosecution for pyramid schemes Mr. Lemay also confirmed then that he had received complaints that Police officers were involved in the schemes and that one Police station was used to hold a pyramid scheme meeting.

In his statement, Mr. Lemay said "one or more'' Police officers were carrying out pyramid scheme business during working hours.

They were ordered to stop their involvement because it was bringing discredit on the Police.

The schemes, which offer participants a fabulous return for their money if they recruit others, first surfaced in January.

In July, following a lengthy investigation, Police passed a file on the schemes to Mr. Tokunbo for him to decide if anyone will be charged.

Last night, Mr. Tokunbo told The Royal Gazette : "I've sent the file back to the Police and advised them. It's a matter for them. It's in their hands as to what they do next.'' When pressed if he had decided on whether or not to prosecute, he would only say: "I've advised the Police and the file has gone back.'' Police are also carrying out an internal disciplinary inquiry into the involvement of officers in the schemes.

The spokeswoman was unable to provide any details about the progress of that inquiry.

In February, Peter Eccles, who was then a senior Crown Counsel in the DPP's office, gave an opinion that the schemes were illegal.

Shortly after, Attorney General Dame Lois Browne-Evans revealed that Premier Jennifer Smith had asked her for an opinion on the schemes which would be presented at the next Cabinet meeting.

Dame Lois said she would disclose her opinion to the media after the meeting, but has not done so.

When the schemes first surfaced some supporters claimed the pyramid ventures were only being criticised because they were helping black people to become more wealthy.