Bogus Landlord's Dozen-Plus Victims: CCTV Released

Police hunting a bogus landlord suspected of ripping-off over a dozen wannabe tenants have released this CCTV image.

It was taken at a bank, where the heartless conman accompanied one of his innocent victims as she withdrew £4,200 to pay him a rental 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 30's 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.