Police seek help to identify possible property scammers

Auckland police want help to identify two men who may be involved in a possible property fraud ring.

Police investigating a number of complaints relating to the fraudulent leasing of apartments in the Auckland CBD want to speak to this man. Photo by NZPA/NZ Police.

The scammers use fake passports to rent properties which they then pretend to own in order to lease them out to renters, who are required to pay rent and bond in advance.

At least 18 people are thought to have been duped by the scam.

Police today released the photograph of an Asian man who they would like to speak with, to determine his involvement with the scam.

Police would also like to talk with a second Asian man who victims describe as a 25- to 35-year-old, of chubby build with a round face. He has severe acne, braces on his teeth and wears glasses.

Anyone with information on either man is asked to contact Auckland police.