Adnane El Fehdi, the alleged mastermind behind a vast real estate fraud ring operating in Malaga, has been arrested and extradited to Montreal. The 36-year-old appeared in a Montreal courtroom on February 8, facing serious charges, including fraud and conspiracy. His arrest marks the 18th capture in connection with the scam, which began in 2021 and is estimated to have defrauded victims of more than $5 million.
The criminal ring was initially uncovered in November 2023, when 17 suspects—ranging in age from 22 to 60—were arrested. These individuals, including seven women and 10 men, faced various charges including fraud, money laundering, conspiracy, and receiving stolen property.
According to Montreal police, the fraudsters targeted five mortgage-free properties, including two rental homes in Westmount and Beaconsfield, as well as three vacant lots on Nuns’ Island. Using forged documents, the criminals managed to impersonate the legitimate property owners. They would then appear virtually before a notary to grant an agent full administrative control over the properties, part of their criminal network.
Once in control, the scammers opened bank accounts in the names of the real property owners. They then secured financing from private lenders and fraudulently signed mortgage deeds with different notaries. As soon as the loan money was deposited, the suspects quickly withdrew it.
This massive fraud scheme caused significant financial damage to both the homeowners and the private lenders involved. To help prevent such scams, Montreal police recommend that notaries, real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and private lenders be extra vigilant. For example, they should be able to identify fake driver’s licenses by verifying them with the SAAQ, conduct thorough background checks, and be cautious when power of attorney is used.
Additionally, professionals should watch for clients who insist on virtual meetings to avoid in-person interactions and those who ask few or no questions about loan terms and fees. Owners of rental properties should also exercise caution, as the two rental houses targeted in this scheme were initially leased out by the suspects using false identities.
