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

The Scottish Premiership side have confirmed that a criminal investigation is ongoing and details of the plot will not be divulged until initial inquiries have been made.

Hamilton also added that the club's directors will be paying out of their own pockets to help with the ongoing costs and have urged for calm.

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

"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.

"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."

Hamilton sit ninth in the Scottish Premiership table after eight games.