Sydney landlord allegedly held tenant who couldn't pay rent hostage

Written on the 3 July 2020

A Sydney man who could not afford his rent amid the coronavirus lockdown was allegedly held hostage by his landlord and physically threatened until he paid up.

NSW Police said the 24 year old tenant and his friend arrived at the home he leased near Clifton Reserve in Surry Hills on Wednesday afternoon, and were met by the property owner and another man.

The tenant told officers his rent was in arrears after he was financially affected during the COVID-19 lockdown, but claimed he had negotiated a payment plan with the property owner. It is understood the terrace is rented for almost $1,000 a week.

Police said the owner and the other man entered into an altercation with the tenant and prevented him from leaving until he paid the outstanding amount in full. After the tenant transferred the funds, the pair were allowed to leave and then immediately reported the incident.

Officers arrested property Mr Venneri (owner) later that night and charged him over the alleged incident.

Know what you can and cannot do to tenants not able to pay rent and contact our property management team today!