KUALA LUMPUR: A stern warning has been issued against taxi touting at KL International Airport (KLIA) after a viral case in which a foreign tourist was forced to pay more than 14 times the agreed fare.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke (pic) said such activities would not be tolerated at Terminals 1 and 2 as they risk tarnishing the country’s image.
He revealed that the Road Transport Department (JPJ) had arrested the taxi driver suspected of cheating the tourist at KLIA Terminal 2.
“Two days ago, a viral social media post reported that a foreign tourist was cheated by a taxi tout at KLIA T2. He was initially offered a fare of RM60, but was later forced to pay RM800 before being allowed to leave the car.
“I immediately instructed JPJ to track down the vehicle involved. Following an undercover operation at KLIA yesterday, JPJ successfully apprehended the driver and seized the vehicle on the spot.
“An investigation paper has been opened for further action,” Loke posted on Facebook yesterday, Bernama reported.
He also shared photos of the seized car and commended JPJ for its swift response.
The incident, which went viral on Sept 15, involved a foreign visitor who was looking for a bus to his hotel in Kuala Lumpur. He was approached by a local man who offered a taxi ride for RM60.
Upon arrival near the hotel, the driver refused to stop. Instead, he diverted to a secluded area and demanded RM836, before letting the passenger go.
