JEMPOL: A 39-year-old accountant who had planned to refurbish his condominium has been scammed of almost RM13,000 by a so-called property agent.

       Jempol district police chief Supt Hoo Chang Hook said the victim, who owns the unit in Kuala Lumpur, was contacted by someone who identified himself as “Max” earlier in March.

       “He told the accountant he got his contact from the developer and that it would cost him RM12,950 to repaint the unit, have some electrical work done and purchase a few items for the apartment.

       “The victim, who never met the suspect in person, agreed and then transferred the money to a bank account in two transactions on March 25 and April 4,” he said, adding that both men only communicated on the phone or via WhatsApp.

       Supt Hoo said “Max” was given a month to complete the job.

       The accountant did not manage to check on the progress of the work as he was unable to travel to Kuala Lumpur due to the Covid-19 interstate travel restrictions.

       When he eventually had a chance to check his unit on Nov 8, he was shocked to discover that it had been rented out to someone else.

       “He also realised that ‘Max’ did not buy items for the apartment as agreed upon,” he said, adding that he then lodged a police report.