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AFP Raids Target Suspected NDIS Fraud Ring, Seize Cash, Gold and Crypto

Regulators are seeking to confiscate more than $5 million to protect funds for people on the NDIS.

Overview

  • Operation Benz, an AFP-led probe, carried out raids across Brisbane, Cairns and Far North Queensland that uncovered $94,000 in cash, about $82,000 in gold and silver, and a cryptocurrency wallet.
  • The Queensland Crime and Corruption Commission says it has identified more than $5 million tied to the group and is moving to seize those assets.
  • The inquiry began after the National Disability Insurance Agency flagged claims for services that were never provided, linked to a business run by the same person who lodged the claims.
  • Investigators collected devices, documents and cloud data for forensic analysis, and police say no charges have been laid.
  • The government has raised NDIS fraud penalties and expanded NDIA enforcement to about 500 staff, with the minister estimating fraud at roughly eight per cent of the scheme’s budget.