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HK Renovation Scam: Fake Plumber Swindles HK$110K
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Earlier, the police arrested a 46-year-old man on suspicion of 'obtaining property by deception'. The case alleges that the man falsely claimed to be a plumber and electrician, posting fake advertisements on online platforms offering plumbing, electrical, and renovation services. After collecting deposits, he disappeared, making off with a total of HK$110,000.
Using Company-Named Receipts to Enhance Credibility
Police recently received a report from a man who claimed to have met a renovation worker on an online platform. The worker quoted HK$12,000 for a water meter installation project. The two later met to discuss the details, and the victim, swayed by the worker's use of professional terminology, let his guard down. After paying the deposit, the worker disappeared, leaving the victim to realize he had been scammed.
According to police investigations, the suspect prepared quotations for each meeting with the victim and issued receipts bearing a fake company name after collecting the deposit to appear more credible. The scammer also provided minor renovation services before demanding additional payments under various pretexts, such as purchasing materials. The victim, reassured by the partial completion of the work, grew less suspicious—only to discover the scam when the worker vanished after receiving the money.
At Least 15 People Defrauded, Total Amount Involved HK$110,000
Police have discovered that the fraudster, posing as a plumbing and electrical repairman, is active on various social media platforms, falsely claiming to provide various home maintenance and renovation services, including plumbing, electrical work, and painting. However, investigations revealed that the fraudster is not a registered plumbing or electrical technician, though he has worked in related fields and is familiar with industry terminology. Additionally, he has not registered any company, and the company name printed on his invoices does not exist.
The suspect is involved in at least 15 similar fraud cases across Kowloon and the New Territories, involving approximately HK$110,000. The largest single loss amounted to HK$50,000. The earliest police report from a victim dates back to August of last year, and it is possible the suspect is involved in other cases. Several victim groups denouncing the alleged fraudster have also emerged on social media platforms.
Police Arrest 46-Year-Old Local Unemployed Man
After receiving a report, the police successfully identified the suspect. Later, upon learning that the man was about to contact a new victim, they swiftly deployed an operation and arrested a 46-year-old local man surnamed Chan in Kwai Chung District, who claimed to be unemployed. The police found quotations, receipts, renovation tools related to multiple cases, as well as a fake company seal on him.
The police urge the public to be vigilant when conducting online transactions and to carefully verify the identity and relevant information of the other party to avoid falling into similar fraud traps. Citizens who suspect or have encountered fraud can contact the Kwai Tsing District Crime Squad Team 1 at 3661 2937 and 9471 7672. The police emphasize that "obtaining property by deception" is a serious offense, with a maximum penalty of 10 years' imprisonment upon conviction, and urge the public not to break the law. If citizens have any suspicions, they can also call the "Anti-Scam Helpline 18222" for inquiries. In case of emergencies, please call 999 directly for assistance.
Read more:【Plumbing Scams】Hiring a plumber online turns into a trap, HK$700 becomes HK$7,500, revealing 2 common tactics
Want to avoid becoming the next victim?
To avoid becoming the next victim, you can join the Flagship Renovation Anti-Scam Class organized by Renovation Academy. This course is designed to raise awareness about renovation scams, where participants will learn how to identify common scam tactics and avoid pitfalls. After attending the class, participants will enhance their anti-scam abilities, thereby avoiding being deceived in future renovation projects.
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