Scam in MyanmarBuses and trains
Rickshaw driver falsely says the bus cannot enter central Bago in Myanmar
How it works
A rickshaw driver boards a stopped bus and says it cannot stop in the centre. The aim is to get you off early so you need a paid ride.
Warning signs
- A rickshaw driver boards before the bus reaches town.
- He says you must get off because the bus cannot reach the centre.
How to avoid it
- Stay on the bus.
- Tell the bus staff you want to go to the centre.
- Confirm the stop with bus staff rather than the rickshaw driver.
If it happens to you
If you are still aboard, remain seated and speak to the bus staff. If you have already got off, agree on any onward fare before boarding another vehicle.
- Move to a safe place. Do not chase anyone or argue with a threatening group.
- If a cash transaction is still underway, stop and check the agreed price, note values and total payout. Ask calmly for the mistake to be corrected.
- Block stolen cards and secure affected accounts. Use your bank's official app or contact details.
- Save receipts, tickets, messages and transaction details. Write down the time, location and what happened.
- Report theft, robbery or fraud to police. Ask for a written report or reference number if available.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate. Seek medical help promptly after injury or a suspect drink.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the rickshaw driver falsely says the bus cannot enter central Bago scam in Myanmar?
A rickshaw driver boards a stopped bus and says it cannot stop in the centre. The aim is to get you off early so you need a paid ride.
How can I spot it early?
A rickshaw driver boards before the bus reaches town. He says you must get off because the bus cannot reach the centre.
How do I avoid rickshaw driver falsely says the bus cannot enter central Bago in Myanmar?
Stay on the bus. Tell the bus staff you want to go to the centre. Confirm the stop with bus staff rather than the rickshaw driver.
What should I do if it happens to me?
If you are still aboard, remain seated and speak to the bus staff. If you have already got off, agree on any onward fare before boarding another vehicle.
Where in Myanmar does this happen?
Buses arriving from the south, about 4 km outside Bago It has been reported in Bago.
How common is this scam in Myanmar?
Occasional. Tourists can face money-changing tricks, inflated transport prices and persistent sellers in Myanmar. Petty theft is also a concern, though the material describes reported crime levels as low. Check cash carefully and agree on prices before paying.
Are there similar scams in Myanmar?
Yes: false claim that Bago has no main bus station.
Who can I report it to?
Local police: report theft, robbery or fraud at a police station. Bring any receipts, transaction records and a written account. Ask for a report or reference number if available. Card issuer or bank: use the bank's official app, website or the number on your card to block a stolen card and report unauthorised transactions. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate through its official contact channels if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Travel insurer: use the insurer's claims or assistance service. Keep police records, receipts and evidence of the loss. Business or transport operator: raise a disputed payment, missing change or questionable ticket with the business or operator. Show the receipt and agreed terms, if you have them.
Reviewed by @snuck