Indian-origin duo wanted for over $30,000 rental fraud in Canada's Mississauga

Peel Regional Police have booked two Indian-origin men in connection with an apartment rental fraud in Mississauga in which eight people were allegedly duped of more than $30,000.

In a statement, Peel police said the duo allegedly defrauded eight people through an apartment rental scheme in Mississauga.

According to police, the scheme began early last year when two men from Saskatchewan and British Columbia advertised rental opportunities on social media.

Victims were shown an apartment and met individuals posing as tenants. After signing agreements online, they sent deposits by e-transfer. When they arrived to move in, the unit was unavailable and the supposed landlord could not be reached.

Investigators confirmed that at least eight victims lost money and none received accommodation or refunds.

Police said the suspects had rented the unit themselves through a short-term rental platform, and the actual owners are not implicated.

Arrest warrants have been issued for Jashanpreet Sidhu, 23, of Saskatoon, and Priyanshu Goel, 24, of Surrey, British Columbia, on charges of fraud over $5,000. The suspects are currently on the run.

Sidhu also faces a charge of possession of property obtained by crime. Police said no images of the suspects are available.

Authorities are urging caution when searching for rentals. They advise verifying the identity of property owners and avoiding pressure to sign agreements or send deposits without proper checks.