Enhancing Fusion Centre Capabilities through Brigade Investigation Approaches: A Framework for Forensic Investigations at South African State-Owned Entities

Remone Govender; Tembela Kulu

doi:10.25159/3005-4222/20835

Authors

Remone Govender PSIRA
General Kulu

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/3005-4222/20835

Keywords:

brigade investigation, fusion centre, state-owned entities, forensic investigation, anti-corruption, intelligence sharing

Abstract

State-owned entities (SOEs) in South Africa face unprecedented challenges in detecting, investigating, and prosecuting complex fraud and corruption schemes. Traditional investigative approaches often operate in silos, resulting in fragmented intelligence, delayed prosecutions, and ineffective asset recovery. This paper proposes a brigade investigation approach integrated within fusion centre frameworks to enhance forensic investigation capabilities at South African SOEs. Drawing from military brigade organisational structures and intelligence fusion principles, this research presents a coordinated, multi-disciplinary investigative model that enhances information sharing, streamlines investigative processes, and improves prosecution outcomes. Through theoretical analysis and application to the South African SOE context, this paper demonstrates how brigade investigation methodologies can address systemic challenges, including institutional fragmentation, resource constraints, and sophisticated criminal networks. The proposed framework offers practical recommendations for SOE management, law enforcement agencies, and policymakers seeking to strengthen anti-corruption infrastructure and improve investigative effectiveness.

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