UPDATE: A Canberra family is facing a shocking situation as their belongings are being held “ransom” by a removalist over a fee dispute. The family claims their household items, including a valuable Persian rug worth $5,000, are still with the movers following a dramatic standoff.
Just announced: Madhu Priya, a cardiac sonographer who has lived in Canberra for 18 years, hired Duffy-based Expressmover for a scheduled move on July 27, 2025. After agreeing on a fee of $900 for the job, the family found themselves in a nightmare when the removalist demanded an unexpected $1,600 mid-journey, threatening not to deliver their items.
The Priya family was eagerly preparing to move from their home in Tuggeranong to McKellar, but their plans quickly unraveled. “When the movers called demanding more money, I was shocked. They threatened not to deliver our belongings if I didn’t pay,” said Priya. This urgent situation forced the family to seek help from both ACT Policing and Access Canberra’s Fair Trading and Consumer Rights department.
After a tense few days of negotiation, the removalist finally delivered the items, but not without complications. Priya’s son attempted to document the drop-off, only to be confronted by the driver, who allegedly assaulted him and forced him to delete the video evidence. The family’s ordeal continued as they discovered their Persian rug was missing.
“We were devastated. This rug is not just a piece of furniture; it holds sentimental value,” Priya explained. Authorities have confirmed that while the situation was reported to ACT Policing, no criminal offenses were identified, leaving the family in a frustrating limbo.
Expressmover responded to the allegations, with a representative named Charles vehemently denying claims of ransom. He argued that additional items were present that warranted the extra charge. “We completed the job as agreed, and everything was dropped off,” he insisted, while describing the family’s behavior as “rude.”
As of now, the family has lodged a formal complaint with Access Canberra and is awaiting a case officer’s response. The situation highlights a significant concern for consumers about the reliability of moving companies and the potential for exploitative practices.
Priya’s distress is palpable as she awaits resolution. “I just want my belongings returned and to find a solution to this nightmare,” she said, expressing hope that authorities will take her case seriously.
The broader implications of this incident raise questions about consumer rights in the moving industry and the need for stronger regulations to protect families during such vulnerable times. The Priya family continues to navigate this challenging situation, and many are watching closely as it develops.
Stay tuned for updates on this urgent matter as the family seeks justice for their ordeal.
