Mumbai Airport Scam: Cabbie Defrauds NRI With Fake Fare App, Arrested

Mumbai International Airport, Maharashtra: A shocking case of fraud at Mumbai International Airport unfolded when an Australia-based NRI businessman, D Vijay of Nagpur, was charged Rs 2,800 for a 10-minute cab ride to Vile Parle on December 15. The culprit, taxi driver Vinod Goswami (32), used a fake fare app to deceive the victim.

The scam came to light when Vijay reached his hotel and discussed the exorbitant fare with the staff. Acting promptly on his emailed complaint, Sahar police apprehended Goswami on Tuesday.

Vijay recounted how the driver approached him at the airport and convinced him to bypass the prepaid taxi counters. Unaware of the ploy, Vijay proceeded with the ride. Despite initially hesitating to question the fare midway, he soon realized the scam after reaching his destination.

In the aftermath, police launched a crackdown on fraudulent practices at the airport, penalizing nine cabbies in two days. Travelers are urged to remain cautious and rely on official prepaid counters or verified ride-hailing services to avoid similar incidents.