Methodology & Editorial Standards

Every factual claim published on this site undergoes rigorous verification. Our fact-checking process includes:

• Primary Source Verification: All claims are traced to primary source documents wherever possible. Secondary sources are used only when primary sources are unavailable, and such reliance is clearly noted.
• Multiple Source Confirmation: Significant factual claims require confirmation from multiple independent sources before publication.
• Document Authentication: Documentary evidence is authenticated through metadata analysis, provenance verification, and where necessary, expert consultation.
• Chronological Verification: Timelines and sequences of events are cross-referenced against multiple sources to ensure accuracy.

We maintain strict standards for source handling and confidentiality:

• Confidential Sources: Where sources require anonymity, we protect their identity while ensuring claims can be independently verified.
• On-Record Statements: Wherever possible, we seek on-record statements from sources. Anonymous attribution is used only when necessary to protect source safety or employment.
• Source Reliability Assessment: All sources are assessed for reliability, potential bias, and motivation before their information is incorporated into published material.
• Documentation: All source interactions are documented, including date, method of contact, and nature of information provided.

All published material clearly distinguishes between three categories of content:

All subjects of investigation are afforded meaningful opportunity to respond before publication:

• Advance Notice: Subjects are contacted with sufficient time to prepare a considered response. The standard notice period is 14 days, though this may be extended for complex matters.
• Specific Allegations: Right of reply requests include specific details of allegations to enable substantive response.
• Publication of Responses: All responses received are published in full or in substantial summary. We do not selectively quote responses to misrepresent their content.
• Documented Non-Response: Where subjects decline to respond or fail to respond within the specified period, this is documented and noted in published material.

We are committed to accuracy and will promptly correct any errors:

• Factual Errors: Significant factual errors are corrected immediately upon verification. Corrections are noted at the end of the relevant article with the date of correction.
• Clarifications: Where material is accurate but potentially misleading, clarifications are added to provide necessary context.
• Corrections Log: A public corrections log is maintained documenting all corrections made to published material.
• No Deletion: We do not delete published material except in exceptional circumstances. Corrections are appended rather than replacing original text.

To report an error or request a correction, please use our contact form with documentary evidence supporting your correction request.

All investigations are conducted in the public interest. We consider material to be in the public interest when it:

• Exposes or detects crime, significant impropriety, or seriously anti-social behaviour
• Protects public health or safety
• Exposes misleading claims made by individuals or organisations
• Discloses information that enables the public to make informed decisions
• Holds those in positions of responsibility to account
• Exposes injustice or contributes to debate on matters of public concern

The public interest is weighed against any potential harm that may result from publication. Material is not published where potential harm outweighs public interest, unless the matter is of such significance that publication remains justified.