An estate agent who photographed clients’ bank cards while showing prospective buyers around their homes has pleaded guilty to fraud.

He has admitted to seven counts, but asked to 69 other offences to be taken into consideration.

Ayodele Oladuti, 29, of South Croydon, London, photographed bank cards on his phone, and took bank statements and other documents as he visited clients’ homes.

He used  the documents to commit identity theft – taking out bank accounts and contracts in their names.

According to Surrey Police, he also used the photographed bank cards to buy clothing and electrical goods online and in stores.

In total he attempted to defraud 20 victims of a total of £25,298, but police say was successful in obtaining just over £6,000.

Oladuti’s offending began after he faked references and qualifications on his CV to gain a job as an estate agent in Epsom, Surrey.

Police have not named the agency for whom he worked.

Oladuti was caught when a suspicious client recorded CCTV footage of him removing a jewellery box from a cupboard, and detectives looked further into his background.

Oladuti admitted seven counts of fraud at Reigate County Court. He has also asked for a further 69 offences to be taken into consideration. He will now be sentenced on April 7.

DC Simon Evans, who investigated the case, said: “Ayodele Oladuti breached the trust placed in him by innocent victims who looked to him to help them sell their properties.

“He caused untold stress and worry to his victims, who were forced to rearrange their financial affairs at the same time as they were trying to move house.”

EYE has asked Surrey Police for further details in what appears to be an extraordinary case.