Toronto police seek suspect in condo rental fraud investigation

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Toronto Police Department is asking the public for help locating a suspect after several people were scammed in an apartment rental scam.

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Cem Devrim Turetken, 49, is wanted in an ongoing investigation.

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Police alleged a man advertised Toronto apartments on various websites between November and February, despite not having the authority to display or rent them.

The suspect used multiple aliases and numerous company names, including Sudbury-based Smart Rental Property Management Inc. and GTA Rentals.

Investigators believe there could be more victims.

Police are asking anyone who has been victimized or has any other information to contact Division 52 at 416-808-5200, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477) or at 222tips.com.

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Meanwhile, the police gave tips on how to avoid fraud when looking for a rental apartment.

They advised people to research the property in person, double-check the address to make sure it’s not listed elsewhere, and never pay with cash, bank transfer, or a digital currency like bitcoin, which is difficult to track.