We are honour bound not to disclose details of individual cases but some of our clients deal in large quantities of goods both in the United Kingdom and abroad. The shipment of goods takes time and organisation, as it is sometimes a complicated matter regarding the finance of the cargo. Letters of credit and other fiscal arrangements make storage and monitoring essential to the good order of the business.

The business arrangements invariably rely on trust and employee integrity and, when fraud occurs, the whole fabric of the entity is damaged and possibly, more importantly the reputation of the business.

We have assisted companies where the foregoing arrangements have been infiltrated by fraudsters who are adept at gaining the information required to redirect consignments whilst, at the same time, reassuring interested financial parties that all is well.

It is essential to act promptly and travel to the area quickly. We have conducted such enquiries in the Far East, the African continent, Eastern Europe and domestically. Invariably employees on meagre wages in foreign parts have been corrupted by the promise of vast gains.

An understanding of shipping and storage procedures, terminology and culture is essential and to look at theses matters not only as a commercial exercise that has “gone wrong” but also as a criminal enterprise which has been carefully planned and exercised.

We have successfully investigated these types of frauds internationally and been able in a number of cases to prosecute those responsible.

Invariably there are several insurers involved and liaising with them to minimise losses and claims and to make recommendations to prevent further losses is an additional role we have had to fulfil.