Bengaluru teen extorted by cab driver, police inaction sparks outrage

A shocking case of harassment and extortion has raised concerns over passenger safety in Bengaluru after an 18-year-old was allegedly threatened by a cab driver while traveling from Kempegowda International Airport to his PG accommodation in Yelahanka.

Also Read: ‘You pay Rs 1k, but fare would be just Rs 800’: How cabbies hoodwink Bengaluru airport travellers

The incident occurred around 2 AM on Saturday when the teenager, struggling to book an app-based cab, opted for an airport taxi. Initially, the driver agreed to a fare similar to that shown on Rapido, approximately ₹800. However, during the journey, the driver took a longer route and later stopped in a deserted area, demanding ₹3,000 instead. He allegedly issued threats, warning of dire consequences if the passenger refused to pay.

Seeking help, the teenager approached two nearby police patrol officers, but they reportedly refused to intervene. Instead, they advised him to accompany the driver to a police station to resolve the issue. Feeling unsafe, the teenager pleaded to go with the officers instead, but they left, forcing him to comply with the driver’s demand.

With no other option, he paid ₹3,000 and was dropped at his destination. The traumatic ordeal was later shared by his sister on social media, sparking outrage. Airport authorities have acknowledged the incident and assured an internal inquiry, while social media users demand strict action against the driver and stronger passenger protections.