A corruption probe is an investigation that seeks to uncover alleged corrupt practices by people or organizations, whether in the private or public sector. It can be initiated either by an internal company process or by a government agency. The two processes often overlap and both must be carefully managed to ensure they are conducted thoroughly.
The best source of evidence for most corruption cases will be a whistleblower or a leak. These sources can provide valuable information about the corrupt activity and can help to identify the wrongdoers, as well as what role they play in the organisation or body involved. Additional evidence can be obtained through Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, for example identifying those who receive bribes, information on the value of their assets and changes in those assets over time.
Interviews with the primary subject are an important element of a corruption probe. These interviews can be difficult to conduct, as it is possible for the subject to deny all allegations and even commit perjury. If they are not cooperative, it is crucial to find a less senior individual who can be convinced to cooperate and provide helpful admissions. Interviews of third parties and suspect contractors are also important to help identify the corrupt payments. It is also worth investigating how those illicit payments were made, either out from the suspect contractor through a negotiated agreement or back in to the suspect contract awardee through the exercise of contract audit rights, or by subpoenas or search warrants.
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