NEIL Thomas, the head of investigative services at anti-fraud experts Asset Protection Unit (APU), has been appointed to the board of directors at the International Association of Auto Theft Investigators (IAATI).

The IAATI is the chief international organisation for professionals working to prevent and detect vehicle crime – and the appointment of Neil Thomas, a former detective inspector for West Midlands Police, is an important step for the group as it enlists one of the  most prominent leaders in the fight against fraud.

The IAATI uses auto crime training and its network of members co-operate to help the fight against motor crime, from providing anti-theft security systems, tracking devices or identifying cloned vehicles, and APU’s unique investigative process combining traditional police work, expert data analysis and state-of-the-art technology will help the organisation keep abreast of developments on every level of motor fraud.

APU has received international acclaim by national and trade media for its decisive contribution in several high profile cases of fraud, in which Neil Thomas played a leading role and coordinated key operations among international agencies including NaVCIS and the NCA.

An international investigation last year was launched after APU’s bespoke technology located a stolen Lexus, and resulted in the repatriation of 24 vehicles valued at more than a million pounds and a dismantled Ugandan car theft syndicate. The APU team has continued to make a significant impact in the industry this year, recently securing the conviction and imprisonment of one of the UK’s most prolific fraudsters after conclusive evidence compiled by APU investigators supported a guilty verdict.

APU’s team of telematics and anti-fraud experts is increasingly utilised by police forces across the country, as police often lack the resources and skills to interrogate telematics data and package it into usable evidence in court.

Neil Thomas, APU’s head of investigative services, commented: “It is a real honour to have been appointed to such a prestigious position in what is a vital organisation for the industry. It is affirmation of the excellent work everyone at APU has done to combat fraud and make UK roads a safer place, and vindication of our collaborative and innovative approach.”

Justin Powell, president of the IAATI, commented: “Neil has done a terrific job with APU over the last few years and has helped cement its place at the forefront of the fight against motor fraud. His appointment will be a boost for the IAATI and the expertise he brings to the board should prove invaluable.”

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