Hamilton Accies have been the target of an "elaborate fraud" resulting in the loss of a substantial sum of money.

The Premiership club confirmed it is working with closely with its bank and Police Scotland.

No indication of the sum involved has been given but the board have pledged to inject additional funds into the club to meet the shortfall.

Chairman Les Gray said: "Hamilton Academical FC have been the target of an elaborate fraud resulting in the loss of a substantial sum of monies.

"The Police Service Scotland and our bank are working closely with the club conducting a criminal investigation to pursue those individuals responsible.

"At this point it is imperative that we remain calm and work together as we go through one of the most difficult situations we have faced as a club."

He added: "In the interim, the directors intend to inject funds to meet the club's ongoing obligations until the investigation is complete to ensure continuity.

"It is our intention to host a media briefing to go into more detail when the initial legal and banking investigations reveal the facts. This will allow us to give full disclosure of the event.

"No further comment will be made at this time as the police investigation continues."

Neil Doncaster, chief executive of the SPFL, said: "Hamilton Academical have informed us that they have been the victim of a sophisticated financial fraud and that Police Scotland are carrying out an investigation.

"This is clearly a very serious and unfortunate situation and everyone in the game will hope it can be resolved quickly.

"We will be monitoring the situation closely and working in conjunction with Hamilton Academical in the days and weeks ahead."

A Police Scotland spokeswoman said: "We can confirm a complaint has been received regarding a fraud and officers are currently carrying out inquiries into this matter."

The force was unable to comment on the scale of the fraud.