Casework

Asset Tracing
We can perform complex, multi-jurisdictional asset tracing and recovery operations for shipping companies, charterers and lawyers.

Cargo Fraud or Theft
There are numerous scenarios whereby a beneficiary is denied legal receipt of cargo. We have investigated a large number of these for shippers, receivers, freight forwarders, shipping companies, banks and lawyers.

Charter Party Fraud & Deviations
Problems arise whenever charter party terms are not met or the vessel and her cargo deviate from the intended voyage. We investigate what happened, why and who was responsible for shippers, receivers, ship owners, banks and lawyers.

Debt Recovery
We are familiar with debts such as unpaid demurrage claims, arbitration awards, hire payments, freight balances, bunker supplies, and disbursement accounts. Invariably, the problem is that the companies incurring them are international by nature, often registered in offshore jurisdictions and operated through third parties in third countries. They are thus difficult for an individual company to collect.

Using a combination of communication and other techniques to apply pressure on debtors, we are usually able to recover outstanding debts for our members when we intercede on their behalf. The mere threat of being named and shamed often goes a long way to resolving the situation. The service works and is extremely cost effective

Hijacked and Phantom Ships
We track and trace vessels that have been hijacked or are operating as phantom ships and work with the parties concerned to return them and their cargoes to their rightful owners.

Insurance Claims – Hull and Cargo
We work with insurers to help validate suspicious claims in cases of damage or loss to hull and cargo.

Special Projects
When requested, we carry out bespoke research projects on behalf of companies, organisations and governments. A speciality is port and ship risk assessments and security surveys. We have also conducted research into drug trafficking, transit fraud, and non-marine asset tracing.

Vessel Tracking
Ships deviate or disappear for many different reasons. We use our network of contacts to track them down on behalf of owners, managers, cargo interests and insurers.

Investigation Team
You can get further information about IMB investigation services by contacting the Investigation Team. We will be happy to discuss your requirements and suggest an approach or remedy that can resolve your difficulties.