A MAJOR council house fraud crackdown targeting illegal tenants has been hailed a success.

Tendring Council launched its first tenancy fraud amnesty earlier this year.

It was aimed at taking back council houses from people who were not entitled to them so the properties could be given to people on the waiting list.

So far five houses – including two in the Harwich area – have been taken back, with more cases ongoing.

In March, residents were given the chance to come clean and hand back keys with no questions asked or face the fraud crackdown.

Anyone discovered committing an offence could face up to two years in prison and a fine of up to £50,000, as well as paying back any profits made from the fraud.

Council housing boss Paul Honeywood said: “As a result of the amnesty, the council received 17 separate referrals relating to information on incorrect tenancies.

“Three people gave up their tenancies voluntarily due to various reasons and two had agreed mutual exchanges.

“One case resulted in an increase in council tax due, two cases are ongoing and nine resulted in no further action being taken.

“On top of the referrals, there were 16 further investigations relating to council addresses within the district and two proper ties were returned following eviction proceedings.

“There were six properties where council tax due was increased; three cases are still ongoing and five resulted in no further action.”

The clampdown was launched because officers believed several of the council’s 3,200 properties across the district were being occupied illegally.

Housing benefit payments have also been reduced by £28,000 a year.