The Public Prosecutor's Office of Santa Cruz de Tenerife has requested a three-and-a-half-year prison sentence for a man accused of renting out two properties that did not belong to him.
Alternatively, if he is convicted of money laundering, he could face two years in prison.
In either case, authorities are seeking nearly €2,000 in compensation for the women who fell victim to his deception.
The story begins when the first victim expressed interest in a residential property advertised online for long term let. She contacted the accused through a messaging app, using his mobile number, but he falsely identified himself with a different name.
Pretending to be the property owner, he requested €1,020 as rent. Believing she was dealing with the actual owner, the woman made two bank transfers: one for €680 and another for €340. After receiving the payments, the accused blocked her on the app, leaving her without access to the property.
The second victim's experience was strikingly similar. She too was interested in a property advertised online, this time by a friend of the accused. After speaking with him, she was convinced to send two transfers of the same amounts, €680 and €340. Once again, the accused blocked her on the app and denied her access to the property.
This case highlights the persistent issue of rental scams in Tenerife and emphasises the need for caution among prospective tenants. The authorities are taking action to address such fraudulent activities, aiming to protect people from falling prey to similar scams in the future.
