By Greg Davis Global News
Police in Peterborough, Ontario, have arrested a 22-year-old man in connection with a rental scam that targeted individuals seeking apartments. Authorities believe there may be more victims involved.
The suspect, Nigel Chiwara, a Boston resident, faces fraud charges following a police investigation into two separate incidents of rental fraud. According to the Peterborough Police Service, both victims responded to an ad on Facebook Marketplace offering an apartment in the area of Brock and Reid streets.
After visiting the apartment, both victims sent $1,000 to the alleged landlord to secure the rental. However, after the payments were made, the victims lost contact with the landlord and were never given access to the apartment.
Following the report of the scam, investigators visited the location and arrested Chiwara. He was charged with two counts of fraud under $5,000 and released on an undertaking. Chiwara is scheduled to appear in court on July 23, 2024.
Peterborough police have released the suspect’s name, as they believe there may be additional victims of the scam. They urge anyone who believes they may have been defrauded in a similar manner to come forward.
This case highlights the risks of online rental listings and serves as a reminder for renters to carefully verify landlords and rental properties before making any payments.
