Police have arrested a 36-year-old man who is believed to be involved in at least 6 cases of rental scams.
Between January and February 2015, at least 6 similar reports were lodged by victims who responded to online advertisements regarding a room rental at Block 262 Serangoon Central. In all these cases, the victims were directed to make deposits ranging from $800 to $1900 before they would be able to move into the flat. After collecting the deposits, the suspect would be uncontactable.
Through extensive follow-up investigations and enquiries, officers from Ang Mo Kio Police Division arrested the suspect on 25 February 2015 in Eunos.
The suspect will be charged in Court on 27 February 2015 for the offence of Cheating under Section 420 of the Penal Code, Chapter 224, an offence which carries a punishment of imprisonment for a term which may extend to 10 years and a fine.
Police advise members of the public to adopt the following crime prevention measures when seeking a unit for rent:
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Visit the flat you wish to rent and ensure that the person you are dealing with is the rightful flat owner. Request documentary proof of flat ownership that bears the flat owner’s name.
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Ensure that the owner registers the subletting with HDB within 7 days from the subletting date.
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Seek service from a licensed estate agent or registered salesperson (also known as property agent).
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
26 February 2015 @ 5:30 PM