A number of victims were defrauded out of a total of £30,000 by a fake landlord publishing adverts on the Gumtree website.

Police have released an image of a man they wish to speak with in connection with the crimes.

Between April 1 and June 19, flats were advertised for rent in Ealing, Lambeth, Islington, Barnet, and Kilburn on Gumtree, police said.

A number of prospective tenants responded to the adverts and subsequently handed over large deposits totalling more than £30,000.

When the new tenants arrived with their belongings on their moving-in dates, it became apparent that they had been victims of a scam.

The bogus landlord has given a variety of names including Adam Holt, Craig Myers, and Ashley Elliot, but all could be fake identities, police said.

He is described as a smartly-dressed black man, in his 30s, with short black hair and sometimes wears glasses.

He is also known to work with others including a taller black man with a moustache and a black woman, who all dress smartly in business attire.

Police are aware of six victims so far, but believe there may be more.

Officers are advising potential victims to carry out some basic checks before handing over money.

Detective Constable Ross James, from Lambeth CID, said: "We are keen to identify this fraudster as soon as possible.

"Anyone with information about these crimes, or who recognises the man shown in the image, should call police or Crimestoppers."

To provide information to police, please call 101 and quote reference 1217609/15. To remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

If you are about to secure a deposit on a flat, please carry out some basic checks before you hand over your money and personal details. Advice is available at www.actionfraud.police.uk.