The only way to stop fraud and corruption is to stand up to them, said KPMG forensic auditor Johan van der Walt on Wednesday.

Van der Walt, one of the key witnesses in the corruption case against Shabir Shaik, said a zero-tolerance approach and an unequivocal company ethic are critical to effective fraud prevention.

"A supervisor who doctors time sheets and is getting away with it is sending an inappropriate message about the company's perceived attitude to wrong-doing."

Van der Walt said experience has taught him that a resolute refusal to entertain improper procedures at all levels is the most effective antidote against corruption.

"People predisposed towards corruption generally try and get away with it rather than actually breaking the law, and a firm stance tends to dissuade them," he said.

Van der Walt said moves are afoot to put in place cross-border corruption fighting strategies. "It is a slow process, but we're definitely making progress, especially in Mozambique," he said.

Most long-term corrupt practices are perpetrated by syndicates who often operate in several departments, as in government. "Uncovering fraud is a complex business that is bound by several exhaustive investigations aimed at getting to the truth of the matter," he said.

However, the best weapon against the temptation of fraud remains prevention.

With acknowledgements to Derek Alberts and The Natal Witness.