MPI investigations saved more than $9 million in 2009

Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI)’s special investigations unit saved approximately $9.3 million in 2009.
The division investigated roughly 2,750 suspicious claims, including bodily injury, hit and run, auto theft, vandalism, suspected staged accidents or other forms of auto insurance fraud.
Of the more than $9 million saved, approximately $2 million was the result of successful fire investigations.
Investigators were able to determine that many of the 250 investigated vehicle fires were a result of either arson or faulty mechanical repairs.
“Our fire investigators can determine if a fire was the result of arson,” Tim Arnason, MPI’s director of SIU, said in a release. “Where evidence proves owner involvement, the claim would be denied based on the conclusive findings.
“In other cases where causation of fires is attributed to faulty mechanical repairs, the corporation will seek recovery from the person or business responsible.”