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Beware of rental scam

MIDRAND - Please be aware that there is a scam going around that involves rental apartments.

I had a bad feeling about paying my deposit for the apartment without viewing it, but was too scared to lose it, as I had already lost two apartments that I liked.

I decided to pay the deposit, as the owner’s so-called ‘nephew’ mentioned that someone else had viewed the apartment the previous night and seemed very interested.

Once I paid the deposit I sent through my proof of payment and kept following up with the owner, however I always had difficulty getting hold of him.

I thought that maybe the reason was that he was inundated with work. I spoke to many people about my suspicions but they reassured me and told me that I was over-reacting.

I was supposed to meet the owner during the weekend, but he never pitched. He always had stories! By the time I realised I had been scammed it was too late as he had already drawn all the money out of his account, so I could not do a bank reversal.

There are quite a few other people involved in this syndicate. They use different cellphone numbers and advertise on Gumtree. Currently they have six rental advertisements. They advertise for Midrand and the surrounding areas.

I have opened a case with the police, so if you have had a similar experience, please contact the Midrand Reporter. They will get in contact with me and the police that are handling the case.

Please help me get these criminals caught, so that they will not do this to anyone else.

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