The value of modus operandi in investigating child support grant fraud

Abstract

While establishing modus operandi information is an investigative technique that is used globally in the investigation of fraud, investigators of child support grant fraud in South Africa do not properly use this technique in their investigation.

The study sought to examine the modus operandi used by civil servants in unduly accessing child support grand fraud. The study adopted a qualitative approach, with structured interviews and literature as data-collection methods. Two sample groups were used to gather data. The data was analysed using spiral method.

The study found that modus operandi as a valuable investigation tool was not properly used and in other instances was never used in the investigations. On the basis of the findings, it is recommended that modus operandi captured on the police and corporate database systems be used as reference for comparing modus operandi of known grants fraudsters. Training and skills be provided to public and corporate investigators on the use of modus operandi information in the investigation of social grants.

To ensure that good practice is developed, a modus operandi guideline document should be crafted by the South African Police Services' detective division at National level and corporate investigators respectively, with a view to improve conviction rate.