Here's how reporters can start tracing wealth stashed away by criminals and corrupt officials
Investigations such as the Panama Papers or OCCRP's Russian Laundromat typically involve thousands or millions of documents from multiple sources, as well as various networks of individuals who are participating in setting up offshore accounts or other ways to hide wealth. So how can journalists begin to track the origin and journey of hidden money?
In this post on the Global Investigative Journalism Network (GIJN) which was also republished on IJNet, Stella Roque, communications officer for OCCRP, shares tips from investigative reporters on uncovering looted wealth, from a session during the 2017 Global Investigative Journalism Conference.
They advise using local and national sources and cross-referencing information with sources outside of the country you are investigating, pointing out that once someone starts spending money abroad, various records of their spending can be obtained, such as court and property records.
They also recommend using social media and talking to people who can help you track the lifestyle of the person you are looking into, like architects and other contractors.
If you like our news and feature articles, you can sign up to receive our free daily (Mon-Fri) email newsletter (mobile friendly).
Sign up to receive job alerts of your choice by email, or manage your subscription
Featured recruiter: click to view its vacancies
New digital journal covering inflation and rate setting seeks a talented writer with experience as a financial journalist to use data to produce specialist content
Subscribe to our newsletter for latest news, tips, jobs and more
End that deadline stress today and find help in our freelance directory
Personal trainer James Hilton has launched a podcast 'Jim's Gym - Inspiring Movement'. James, a specialist in biomechanics and injury recovery from the Cotswolds, runs Jim's Gym, a virtual online space supporting people over 55 to be more active
Our next Newsrewired conference will be in May 2025, London.
Conferences and study weeks are fantastic opportunities to get the latest updates on the industry and network with your peers
Awards are a great way to have your hard work recognised by industry experts and celebrate your teams. Here is where you can apply
If you find your social feeds a tad too heavy on men's voices, follow and connect with these fantastic women experts on indie media
How do you move print readers to digital? Are there other ways to hold on to subscribers besides a last-ditch deal?
