Detectives from Islington have today, Tuesday 16 June, released CCTV of a bogus landlord suspected of defrauding members of the public out of more than £20,000.
Between 3 September and 11 September 2014 the man rented a flat in Popham Street, Islington and then, posing as the legitimate landlord, advertised the flat on for rent on popular websites.
A number of prospective tenants contacted him and subsequently handed over large deposits. In total these different deposits totaled in excess of £20,000.
When the new tenants arrived with their belongings on their moving in dates, it became apparent that they had been victims of a scam.
The bogus landlord was caught on CCTV when he accompanied one of his victims to a bank as she withdrew £4,200 in order to pay for her rent in advance.
Police are aware of 12 victims so far, but believe there may be more.
The bogus landlord gave his name as Mustafa Bhatt, but police believe this is a false identity. He is described as an Asian man in his 30s with short black hair, a short beard and dark framed glasses.
Detective Inspector Rita Tierney from Islington CID said: “We have spoken to a number of concerned young adults, some from overseas who have been defrauded of their savings by this unscrupulous man and we are keen to identify him as soon as possible.
“If you recognise this man or have any information about the fraud please call 101 quoting 2721069/14 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
“If you are about to secure a deposit on a flat, please carry out some basic checks before you hand over your money and your identity. Advice is available here: www.actionfraud.police.uk
