A woman from Belhar claims she lost R12 000 to a holiday house scam in Camps Bay. While planning a birthday celebration for her son in December, she was misled by a fraudulent listing on the ‘Perfect Holidays’ Cape Town’ Facebook page.
According to the Cape Argus, the mother, requesting anonymity, found the villa in January and contacted Perfect Holidays. Gary, a representative, directed her to his colleague, Zephane.
Assured of availability, she paid a R12 000 deposit for the 18-guest stay from 26 to 29 December, marking her son’s crown birthday.
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However, doubts surfaced when the family decided to preview the house.
‘When we got to the address in Moolman and knocked on the door, a lady came out and said the house is not for hire or any rentals.’
Irene Smith, the actual owner of the house, acknowledged the scam and noted its frequency in a local WhatsApp group. She said that many, especially international visitors, fall victim to such fraudulent accommodation bookings.
Authorities in Blaauwberg confirmed a similar fraud report involving the name Zephane. The Blaauwberg homeowner confirmed that the house was not for rent, shattering their plans. Attempts to contact Gary were met with evasive responses, heightening their suspicions.
Picture: Timo Wielink / Unsplash