Clackmannanshire Council inspectors detect fraud worth £39,000

More than £36,000 was recovered from fraudsters last year by Clackmannanshire Council inspectors.

The authority uncovered 10 cases of fraud in 2010/11, all involving housing benefit, costing the tax payer £39,340. The council said £36,690 of that figure was being recovered.

In 2008/09, inspectors detected 12 cases of fraud totalling £47,328.

The council's resources and audit committee said it took a zero tolerance approach to fraud.

Resources and audit committee convener Councillor Archie Drummond said: "Everyone has a role to play in preventing and detecting fraud.

"The benefits investigation work will continue to ensure that the council maintains its position as one of the most efficient and effective in relation to fraud detection and recovery."

He added: "Despite this excellent performance, an improvement plan has been prepared to build on the success.

"No-one is complacent, we want to continue to improve.

"The audit and fraud team will continue to progress during 2012, with corporate fraud being a key objective of this team."