A corruption probe is an investigation into the occurrence of corrupt practices within an organisation, government body or public office. These are typically illegal acts such as bribery and embezzlement. Evidence for such cases is often gathered through whistleblowers, leaks or bank records. This information identifies wrongdoers and their roles in the organisation, body or office, the value of property involved and their changes over time. In some countries, citizens can use the right to information to request information directly from governments (see ‘rights to information’) and also access publicly available information on organisations, directors, and value of property.
The way in which anti-corruption bodies, police and companies handle reports of corruption matters is crucial. Not only does it influence the results of any investigation that is opened, but it also determines impressions about whether people believe that their reports are taken seriously.
Ideally, a report is investigated by someone independent of the organisation and public body involved in the suspected corruption. The investigative process includes determining whether the person can provide useful information about the wrongdoing, and deciding on how to obtain that information. Depending on the circumstances, this might be done through interviews and requests or subpoenas. Often the evidence needed is indirect: it is a matter of tracing illicit payments. This can be achieved by examining the suspect contractors’ records, through negotiated agreements or exercise of contract audit rights, or through a search warrant. The investigator must also decide whether to interview the primary subject, seeking admissions or other helpful information such as sources of income or expenditures.