Tricycle Driver Involved in Scamming an Australian Vlogger Arrested for Driving Without License
A tricycle driver who scammed an Australian vlogger has been arrested after being caught driving without a license.
The incident took place in Ermita, Manila, where the tricycle driver disregarded a traffic light. The investigation revealed his connection to a viral video involving an Australian national who claimed to have fallen victim to the tricycle driver’s scam.
The trike driver ignored a red traffic light in Ermita, Manila, on a Wednesday afternoon (November 29, 2023). Upon being stopped by a traffic enforcer, he failed to present a valid license and registration for the tricycle he was operating.
According to Police Corporal Niechi Maci Pascual, an investigator from the Special Mayor’s Reaction Team (SMART) of the Manila Police District, the initial encounter with law enforcement led to the discovery of the tricycle driver’s lack of proper documentation.
“Naka-red light po, e tumawid po siya. Pinara po siya nung traffic enforcer then hinanapan po siya ng lisensya and rehistro po nung ginagamit niyang tricycle, wala pong mapakita,” Pascual said.
Further investigation revealed that this tricycle driver was the same person featured in a viral video where an Australian vlogger claimed to have been scammed. In the video, the foreigner was approached by the tricycle driver while heading to a mall in Ermita.
The driver quoted a fare of P50 for the short trip. However, upon boarding the tricycle, additional passengers joined, and the driver asserted that the Australian had to pay P550. The vlogger and the driver have an exchange of heated arguments due to the issue.
The Australian vlogger documented the incident and shared it on social media, prompting various reactions and expressions of sympathy from viewers. Concerns were raised about the negative impact on the image not only of Manila but also of the entire Philippines.
Previously, a tricycle driver apologizes for overcharging tourist vlogger in manila
Police Corporal Pascual expressed her concern about the tarnished reputation brought about by such incidents. The tricycle driver admitted to the scam and attributed his actions to personal necessity, explaining that he was facing challenges, particularly with his child in the hospital.
The culprit issued an apology, hoping for forgiveness from the foreign national. While the Australian vlogger has yet to formally file a complaint against the trike driver, the suspect will face charges for violating the Land Transportation and Traffic Code.