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The owner of Wasps Rugby Club is a suspect in the Metropolitan Police's computer hacking inquiry, it has emerged.

Steve Hayes, 50, was one of two men arrested in February by Operation Tuleta detectives.

The investigation runs alongside Operation Weeting, which was set up to probe alleged lawbreaking at News International.

But police said the arrest of Mr Hayes is not linked to journalists.

The businessman, who became wealthy through an internet loans firm, remains on bail until June after being arrested in Hertfordshire.

Mr Hayes' arrest related to suspected offences under the Computer Misuse Act 1990 and Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000.

A Wasps spokeswoman confirmed the arrest, but said: "We will not be further commenting for now."

A Scotland Yard spokesman said: "On 24 February, officers from Operation Tuleta arrested a man at his home in Hertfordshire, and a man at an address in Surrey.

"These arrests are not directly linked to any news organisation or the activities of journalists.

"They were taken to London police stations and later bailed to return in June and July 2012 pending further enquiries."

Mr Hayes also owns Wycombe Wanderers Football Club. Last October, he announced plans to put Wasps up for sale.