MADRID (AP) — Spanish police have arrested eight people in raids in Catalonia as part of a corruption and fraud investigation involving the northeastern region's acting ruling party.

A civil guard spokesman said Convergence treasurer Andreu Viloca, a government official and six business directors were arrested Wednesday. He said 23 offices, including Convergence's headquarters, were raided. He spoke on condition of anonymity in keeping with police regulations.

The investigation follows allegations by prosecutors that the party charged businesses commission in exchange for public works projects.

Convergence is at the center of the region's push for independence from Spain.

The arrests came as Convergence party leader and acting regional government President Artur Mas signed an act permitting the formation of a new regional parliament following elections last month.