Since its establishment in 2006, the Benefit Fraud Investigations Department has collected around €31.7 million, the highest sum being €3.83 million in 2014.Since its establishment in 2006, the Benefit Fraud Investigations Department has collected around €31.7 million, the highest sum being €3.83 million in 2014.

The Social Policy Ministry is yet to divulge how many social benefit abusers regularised their position after an ultimatum expired last February.

This newspaper has been chasing the figures since last June, but by the time of writing no replies had been received despite several reminders.

Since its establishment in 2006, the Benefit Fraud Investigations Department has recouped an estimated €31.7 million. The highest amount was recovered last year – €3.83 million. Nevertheless, Social Solidarity Minister Michael Farrugia last January announced an amnesty period through which abusers were invited to “come clean” by refunding just 15 per cent of the amount defrauded.

Dr Farrugia warned that tough sanctions would apply for those who did not profit from the “one-time opportunity” by the end of February.

Read more in the Times of Malta.

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