Transport
Authorities Hunt Illegal Taxi Driver Following Extortion Allegations in Ubon Ratchathani
Police and transport officials are searching for an unlicensed driver accused of overcharging and intimidating a Lao national at the Ubon Ratchathani bus terminal.
According to a report by Khaosod Online Thailand, authorities in Ubon Ratchathani have launched an investigation into an unlicensed taxi driver following a viral social media post. A Lao content creator, known as 'Bak La Krub Channel,' alleged that he was coerced into paying 4,500 baht for a trip from the Ubon Ratchathani bus terminal to the Chong Mek border checkpoint in Sirindhorn district—a distance of approximately 94 kilometers.
The victim claimed that the driver not only demanded an exorbitant fare but also used intimidation tactics to ensure payment. The incident has sparked significant public criticism, with many social media users expressing concern over the negative impact such behavior has on the province's tourism reputation.
Pol. Col. Saksri Krairat, Superintendent of Mueang Ubon Ratchathani Police Station, confirmed that officers are actively tracking the driver identified in the footage. The police are currently working to locate the individual to address the allegations of extortion and price gouging. Authorities have requested that anyone with information regarding the driver’s identity come forward to assist with the investigation. As of now, the driver has not been apprehended, and the specific details regarding the confrontation remain subject to further verification by law enforcement officials.