Police have arrested a cab driver for allegedly overcharging a United States national ₹18,000 for a short ride near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, officials said. The accused, identified as Deshraj Yadav (50), was taken into custody by Sahar Police following a suo-motu first information report (FIR).
According to police, the incident occurred on January 12 when the woman arrived in Mumbai from the US and hired a taxi for what was reportedly a 400-metre journey to Hilton Mumbai International Airport. Instead of dropping her directly, the driver allegedly took her on a 20-minute detour through Andheri (East) before returning to the same locality and charging $200 (approximately ₹18,000).
Social media post triggers action
The matter came to light after the tourist shared details of the experience on social media platform X on January 26. Her post, which included the taxi registration number, received significant online attention and prompted police action.
Despite the delay in official complaint, investigators tracked the accused using the vehicle number and arrested him within hours of registering the FIR on January 27. Police also seized the cab and began the process of recommending licence cancellation through the Regional Transport Office (RTO).
Search on for accomplice
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone VIII) Maneesh Kalwaniya supervised the investigation led by Senior Inspector Manoj Chalke. Officers said they are attempting to record the victim’s formal statement and are searching for another individual suspected to have assisted the driver.
Police added that the woman checked out of her hotel the next day, travelled to Pune and later returned to the US without reporting the incident locally. Authorities have urged tourists to immediately inform hotel staff or police in case of suspected fraud.
Recurring concern for tourists
Officials noted that similar incidents involving overcharging and fraud against foreign travellers have surfaced in the past, raising concerns about enforcement and awareness. Experts have recommended clearer signage, dedicated help desks and visible complaint numbers inside taxis to deter such practices and safeguard visitors.