Our success story

Uncovering a Major Fraud Ring Involving Stolen Identities and Vehicles

The case background

What began as a routine referral for a suspicious insurance claim quickly evolved into a far more extensive matter.

Serpenti Investigations NZ was initially engaged by an insurance provider to investigate a single claim exhibiting unusual traits. A subsequent claim from a different individual exhibited remarkably similar patterns, prompting deeper analysis.

Through thorough investigative work, Serpenti Investigations uncovered interconnections between fifteen separate files, revealing a coordinated fraud ring operating across New Zealand.

Our Objective

Identify all individuals involved, establish the linkages between claims, uncover the method of fraud, and provide sufficient evidence to deny fraudulent claims and support potential prosecution.

"Serpenti Investigations provided a level of analytical depth and operational professionalism that was essential in uncovering the scale of this fraud ring.
Their work directly protected our company and the broader community from ongoing harm."
— Fraud Risk Manager, Major Insurance Company
Our Approach to the case
  • Link Analysis: Connected individual claims through forensic examination of incident details, claimant histories, and third-party service providers.
  • Comprehensive Background Enquiries: Conducted extensive background checks across all named individuals, vehicles, and related parties to identify associations and common denominators.
  • Fraud Pattern Mapping: Developed a detailed profile of how the fraud ring operated, including methods involving:
    Stolen identities
    Stolen vehicles
    Staged vehicle accidents
  • Client Collaboration: Worked closely with the insurance client to ensure alignment on findings, case theory development, and evidence presentation.
  • Law Enforcement Engagement: Coordinated a full in- person operational briefing with the New Zealand Police at Serpenti Investigations' offices, providing complete case files and strategic recommendations.
  • Reporting: Delivered an exhaustive investigation report suitable for criminal prosecution referral.
Our Results

Insurance Impact: The insurance provider was able to decline fraudulent claims based on the evidence provided, preventing substantial financial losses.

Law Enforcement Referral: A full case report was submitted to New Zealand Police for prosecution of those involved.

Prosecution Status: As of this writing, prosecution has not proceeded, primarily due to Police resource constraints rather than a lack of evidence.

Strategic Impact: The exposure of this fraud ring significantly disrupted a major organised insurance fraud network in New Zealand.

Timeframe

Investigation conducted approximately 6 months

Facing a similar situation?

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