When financial fraud is suspected, a rushed response can destroy evidence, alert the wrong people or expose the organisation to additional risk. A controlled investigation plan is essential.
Stabilise the situation
Identify immediate financial, system or asset risks and take proportionate steps to prevent further loss without unnecessarily contaminating evidence. Preserve relevant emails, logs, accounting records and documents.
Consider who should oversee the response. Depending on the circumstances, this may involve the board, audit committee, legal advisers or external specialists.
Define scope and evidence
Document the allegation or anomaly, the period involved and the systems or transaction types likely to be relevant. Build an evidence register and maintain a clear chain of custody for important materials.
Investigate objectively
Use transaction analysis, document review and appropriately planned interviews to establish facts. Findings should distinguish evidence from inference and quantify financial impact only where supportable.
How AS Chartered Accountants can help
Good financial governance is easier when accounting, tax, assurance and advisory work from the same reliable information. AS Chartered Accountants provides partner-led support designed around the realities of operating in Zimbabwe. ASCA offers Forensic Audit & Investigation and related assurance support.
Contact AS Chartered Accountants to discuss your organisation’s requirements and the scope of support that may be appropriate.
