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Fake airport staff helping illegal taxis

By Dong Zhen | 2012-3-28 | NEWSPAPER EDITION
SHANGHAI police are investigating bogus airport terminal staff who lure unsuspecting passengers to unlicensed taxis.

Local police and the taxi watchdog have launched a probe following passenger complaints about being overcharged at Hongqiao International Airport.

One man has been detained and another fined 200 yuan (US$31.74).

Early investigations indicate that the scam is being run by tour agency workers joining forces with illegal cabbies.

The tour staff pose as terminal building workers and get newly arrived passengers - many new to the city - to follow them to unlicensed taxies.

The airport authority said it has increased taxi numbers to ensure there are enough at peak times to prevent passengers falling victim to conmen.

"Police are investigating and, so far, one man has received a seven-day detention and another fined for 200 yuan for disturbing public security," said Chen Zhaohui, a city taxi watchdog official.