'No criminal intention' in flat rentals

Johan Serfontein expressed his regret in an e-mail sent to The Herald following a series of articles published. "There was never ever any intention to do any sort of crime, as I've been afraid of police since I was born," he stated.

Serfontein allegedly pocketed thousands by pretending to rent out an up-market apartment in Dolphin Nook, Summerstrand. It is alleged he mainly targeted foreign students.

To date, at least seven students have laid complaints at the Humewood police station. All claim they found the apartment advertised on Gumtree.

All said they had hurriedly paid the deposit and a month's rent up front to secure their spot. But Serfontein allegedly informed them – after having received the cash – that the apartment was no longer available. Each student lost about R4000 in the scheme.