Robbery linked to unlicensed taxis in Trinidad and Tobago

Unlicensed private cars used for paid rides

How it works

Unlicensed taxis are locally called "PH" or "gypsy cabs". Some drivers have been linked to robbery, kidnapping and murder. These vehicles also have no insurance for hired passengers. This is a serious transport risk, though no frequency is given.

Warning signs

A private car is offered as a "PH" or "gypsy cab".
A car offered as a route taxi has a plate that does not start with H.

How to avoid it

Avoid unlicensed private cars offered for hire.
For a route taxi, check that its number plate starts with H.
Use established taxi stands or ask your hotel for transport guidance.
Confirm the destination and fare before boarding.

If it happens to you

Put your safety first and avoid resisting a robbery. Once safe, contact police. Dial 999 if there is immediate danger.

Get somewhere safe. Do not chase a thief or argue with anyone threatening you.
If there is immediate danger, call police on 999. For an ambulance, call 811. Police may not always answer or attend.
Freeze stolen cards and contact your card issuer through its official app or phone number. Report unfamiliar transactions.
Save receipts, messages, photographs and any vehicle details. Write down the time, place and what happened.
Report theft, robbery or fraud to police. Ask for a report reference or copy for your insurer.
Contact your insurer and, if your passport is missing or you need consular help, your country's diplomatic mission.

Where it happensUnlicensed private cars used for paid rides

More scams in Trinidad and TobagoHigher prices for visitors at outdoor stalls: how to avoid it

Questions

What is the robbery linked to unlicensed taxis scam in Trinidad and Tobago?

How can I spot it early?

A private car is offered as a "PH" or "gypsy cab". A car offered as a route taxi has a plate that does not start with H.

How do I avoid robbery linked to unlicensed taxis in Trinidad and Tobago?

Avoid unlicensed private cars offered for hire. For a route taxi, check that its number plate starts with H. Use established taxi stands or ask your hotel for transport guidance. Confirm the destination and fare before boarding.

What should I do if it happens to me?

Put your safety first and avoid resisting a robbery. Once safe, contact police. Dial 999 if there is immediate danger.

Where in Trinidad and Tobago does this happen?

Unlicensed private cars used for paid rides

How common is this scam in Trinidad and Tobago?

Occasional. The main tourist pricing problem described is outdoor vendors charging visitors more than locals, sometimes asking for US dollars. Other risks include robbery linked to unlicensed taxis and theft from parked cars, including at high-end hotels. There is no clear measure of how often visitors encounter these problems.

Who can I report it to?

Police: call 999 for an emergency. Police do not always answer or attend, so seek another safe way to reach help if needed. Report non-urgent theft or fraud at a police station. Police after a taxi or maxi crash: report the crash as soon as possible, in person at the police station responsible for the area. Ask a local which station covers the location. Card issuer: use your bank's official app or contact number to freeze a missing card, report unauthorised payments and ask about a dispute. Travel insurer: contact your insurer through its official claims channel. Keep the police report, receipts and evidence of your loss. Your country's diplomatic mission: use your government's official website to find contact details. Ask for help with a lost passport or a serious incident. For an extended stay, consider registering with your nearest mission. Rental company or hotel: tell the rental company about vehicle damage or theft. Notify hotel staff if the incident happened on hotel grounds, and ask them to preserve any relevant records.

What number do I call in an emergency in Trinidad and Tobago?

Police: 999, Fire: 990, Ambulance: 811.

Reviewed by @snuck