Report a fraud

The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) today confirmed that an investigation into individuals related to Auckland Transport was commenced last month.

SFO confirms investigation into individuals at Auckland Transport

The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) today confirmed that an investigation into individuals related to Auckland Transport was commenced last month.

The investigation is being conducted under Part II of the Serious Fraud Office Act, meaning the Director had reasonable grounds to believe that an offence involving serious or complex fraud may have been committed.

The investigation relates to alleged irregularities in the procurement of services and as a result search warrants were executed at multiple locations yesterday.

Acting Chief Executive for SFO, Simon McArley, said the matter had been referred to them by Auckland Transport following an internal investigation.

He added that no further comment will be made at this early stage.

ENDS

For further information

Andrea Linton
Serious Fraud Office
027 705 4550

Note to editors

Background to investigation

Auckland Transport is a Controlled Organisation (CCO) of Auckland Council. The organisation combines the transport expertise and functions of eight local and regional councils and the Auckland Regional Transport Authority (ARTA).

Auckland Transport is responsible for all of the region's transport services from roads and footpaths, to cycling, parking and public transport.

About SFO

The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) was established in 1990 under the Serious Fraud Office Act in response to the collapse of financial markets in New Zealand at that time.

SFO's role is the detection, investigation and prosecution of serious or complex financial crime. SFO's focus is on investigating and prosecuting criminal cases that will have a real effect on:

  • business and investor confidence in our financial markets and economy
  • public confidence in our justice system and public service
  • New Zealand's international business reputation.

SFO operates three investigative teams:

  • Evaluation and Intelligence;
  • Financial Markets and Corporate Fraud; and
  • Fraud and Corruption.

SFO operates under two sets of investigative powers.

Part I of the SFO Act provides that it may act where the Director "has reason to suspect that an investigation into the affairs of any person may disclose serious or complex fraud."

Part II of the SFO Act provides the SFO with more extensive powers where: "...the Director has reasonable grounds to believe that an offence involving serious or complex fraud may have been committed..."

SFO's Annual Report 2012 sets out its achievements for the past year, while the Statement of Intent 2013-2016 sets out the SFO's three year strategic goals and performance standards. Both are available online at: www.sfo.govt.nz(external link)