Police Warn Property Owners Over Rental Misuse and Illegal Activities

The Police Media Division has stated that some individuals who rent or lease houses and buildings on short-term or long-term basis are using them for fraud and other illegal activities.

As a result, property owners are advised to act with greater caution and responsibility when renting or leasing out houses and buildings.

While it is a common practice to provide residential or commercial properties to individuals, groups, or companies from both local and foreign backgrounds, there have been several incidents where tenants have unexpectedly engaged in fraudulent or criminal activities.

Due to such situations, property owners have also faced legal complications and investigations in certain cases.

According to Section 76 of the Police Ordinance, police officers are authorized to obtain details of all occupants residing in any house. The head of the household is legally required to provide information about family members, employees, and temporary residents to the relevant police station.

It is also mandatory to inform the police immediately if there are any changes in the occupants of a residence, and failure to do so is considered a punishable offence under the law.

Furthermore, knowingly concealing criminal activities taking place within a house or premises may be treated as aiding and abetting the offence.

Therefore, authorities urge property owners to carefully verify the identity, purpose, and background of tenants when renting or leasing properties in order to prevent fraud and criminal misuse.