Driver fined for scamming tourist

A driver in Danang has been fined VND11 million ($463) by the municipal Department of Transport's inspectors for transporting tourists illegally and charging more than 10 times the usual fee.

Chief inspector Tran Lanh on Monday issued the decision to sanction Truong Hai, 31, for operating without a license.

The inspectors determined that Hai used a white license plate car to transport passengers, while only yellow plates are allowed, according to regulations. His license has been revoked.

On the morning of December 27, 2022, Hai approached Heo Hyeyun, 35, from South Korea, at Danang Airport and offered to take her to the Novotel hotel on Bach Dang street, Hai Chau district. Although Heo Hyeyun already booked a car through Grab, Hai took the customer's phone to cancel the request.

When arriving at the Novotel hotel, Hai took a fee of 120,000 won ($92), about 10 times more than the usual fee for a trip of just 4.5 km.

The visitor reported the incident to the Visitor Support Center under the city Department of Tourism. Danang Police summoned Hai and he admitted the charges.