Man arrested for allegedly cheating over 30 taxi drivers

SINGAPORE - Police have arrested a 42-year-old man for his alleged involvement in a series of cheating cases involving taxi drivers.

Police believe the suspect booked or flagged for taxis and would then direct them to stop over at a food centre before continuing to his intended destination.

He is believed to have asked for a loan of $30 to $50 from the cabbies, allegedly claiming that he did not have enough to pay for his food.

After getting the amount from the drivers, he is believed to have absconded without returning the borrowed amount and without paying the taxi fare.

Police said officers managed to establish the identity of the suspect after extensive ground enquiries and follow-up investigations. The suspect was arrested at Blk 180C Marsiling Road on Wednesday (Oct 7).

He is believed to have been involved in cheating more than 30 taxi drivers since May.

The suspect will be charged in court today for cheating. If found guilty, he faces up to 10 years imprisonment and a fine.

klim@sph.com.sg