Scam in BangladeshTaxis
Kidnapping by late-night airport taxi drivers in Bangladesh
How it works
There have been incidents of tourists being kidnapped by taxi drivers after leaving the airport very late at night. The chance of trouble is described as low, but the consequences are serious.
Warning signs
- You are arranging an airport taxi in the small hours of the morning.
How to avoid it
- If you arrive at night, remain at the airport until morning if possible.
- Use a yellow taxi where available.
- Write down the vehicle's licence plate number.
If it happens to you
Call 999 if you can do so safely. Give your location and the vehicle's licence plate number if known.
- Move to a safe, busy place. Do not chase a thief or continue an argument that feels threatening.
- Call 999 for an emergency involving police, fire or an ambulance. Seek urgent medical help if you suspect drugging.
- Write down what happened, including the time, place, agreed price and vehicle licence plate if known. Save receipts and screenshots.
- Freeze missing payment cards and contact your card issuer. Secure accounts on a stolen phone when possible.
- Report the incident to police. Ask for a report or reference number and keep a copy.
- Contact your insurer and, if your passport is missing or you need consular help, your embassy or consulate.
Questions
What is the kidnapping by late-night airport taxi drivers scam in Bangladesh?
There have been incidents of tourists being kidnapped by taxi drivers after leaving the airport very late at night. The chance of trouble is described as low, but the consequences are serious.
How can I spot it early?
You are arranging an airport taxi in the small hours of the morning.
How do I avoid kidnapping by late-night airport taxi drivers in Bangladesh?
If you arrive at night, remain at the airport until morning if possible. Use a yellow taxi where available. Write down the vehicle's licence plate number.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Call 999 if you can do so safely. Give your location and the vehicle's licence plate number if known.
Where in Bangladesh does this happen?
Taxi departures from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in the small hours. It has been reported in Dhaka.
How common is this scam in Bangladesh?
Occasional. Transport overcharging is a key scam risk in Bangladesh, especially in Chittagong. Other problems include small tourist markups, airport bribe demands, pickpocketing and bag theft. Most people are friendly, but take extra care with strangers' offers and late-night transport.
Who can I report it to?
Police, fire or ambulance: dial 999 from a Bangladeshi mobile phone number or landline for an emergency. Local police: report theft, threats, extortion or fraud. Provide the location, time, description and any receipts or vehicle details. Ask for a report or reference number. Khulna Metropolitan Police Control Room: the listed local number is 20220. For an emergency, use 999. Card issuer or bank: use the official app or published contact number to freeze a missing card and report unauthorised transactions. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular assistance. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and other evidence.
What number do I call in an emergency in Bangladesh?
Police, fire and ambulance: 999.
Reviewed by @snuck