KUALA LUMPUR, The realm of private investigation, often glamourised in movies, is not just about mystery and intrigue. Beyond the cinematic allure, a private investigator’s role encompasses diverse responsibilities, involving the meticulous gathering of information and the pursuit of truth.

In an exclusive interview with Bernama, Datuk M. Venodevan, affectionately known as Dato Devan, shared insights from his two-decade career as a private investigator. Born in Taiping and now 44 years old, he embarked on this journey in 2000 while pursuing his university degree in Information Technology at University Tenaga Nasional.

He described his early years as a one-man operation, where he engaged with clients, conducted field investigations, prepared comprehensive reports and delivered briefings.

“At the same time, I was training with retired investigators from different countries. I was lucky that my superiors 20 years ago believed in mentorship and guided a rookie like myself with no sting on knowledge.

‘The ter
m ‘street investigator’ is often synonymous with a field investigator. We operate in diverse locations, whether it involves tracking a specific individual, assuming undercover roles in warehouses or conducting static surveillance in undisclosed locations,” he explained.

Running his own private investigation firm, Venodevan highlighted the essential skills of adaptability and the ability to work independently or as part of a team, emphasising the more extreme covert methodology of intelligence operations.

As the founder of Venovox (Vox), a Solution Provider for Corporate Investigation and Beyond, he underscored the pivotal role of networks and sources in ensuring the success and breadth of investigative reporting.

These sources, akin to small birds, can provide invaluable whispers that contribute to informed decision-making.

Meanwhile, he explained that private investigation often synonymous with detective work, encompasses a broad spectrum. While commonly associated with cases involving cheating spouses,
he revealed that matrimonial investigations constitute less than five per cent of his professional focus.

His expertise lies in probing corporate fraud and conducting due diligence.

He differentiated between simple cases, such as a one-day surveillance operation for matrimonial matters, and more complex investigations that captivate his team at Venovox-these involve undercover operations and tracing money trails globally, including in the realm of cryptocurrencies.

Notably, their investigations extend beyond traditional bank transactions, delving deeper into the dark web.

Venodevan highlighted the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into their existing technology, citing the benefits of features like facial recognition with integrated geo-fencing tracking and algorithms to analyse the target’s movement patterns.

However, to conduct a successful operation, he believes in a hybrid system of old-school street investigations and technology.

In addressing the perception of private investigation as a
male-dominated field, Venodevan emphasized the presence of successful female investigators in his agency. Notably, the Venovox chief executive officer (CEO), responsible for overseeing 33 in-house analysts, is a woman.

Discussing the operational approach, Venodevan said their commitment to following clients’ instructions and intervening if necessary to prevent unjust accusations against the subject under investigation.

He stressed the importance of factual reporting without embellishments, focusing on accuracy even in the face of inherent risks.

He said that their team follows clients’ instructions to gather evidence, occasionally intervening to prevent a situation where the subject under investigation is innocent.

“The client’s intelligence turned out to be inaccurate. We base our reports on factual information without embellishments.

“While risks are inherent, our training emphasises calculated approaches. Contrary to the sensational elements like bomb explosions and sports car chases seen in Hollywood
spy movies, for us, such scenarios are just a routine part of a typical Tuesday,” he revealed.

Venovox is now present in five countries, namely the United States of America, United Arab Emirates (Dubai), Singapore, Malaysia and Estonia.

Source: BERNAMA News Agency