Tuk tuk drivers offering fake city tours in Colombo
3 Answers from travellers
This is the most common scam in the city. The driver gets fuel vouchers and a cash commission just for bringing you into the shop, and a huge cut of anything you buy. The gems are usually extremely overpriced and sometimes fake. Tell the driver firmly no detours, and only go to the destinations you requested.
We did this and they locked the door behind us and pressured us to buy a sapphire. We had to yell to get them to open it.
Scam Watch: colombo
Driver claims the meter is broken and quotes an inflated flat rate. Common on arrival at airport or railway stations when tourists are tired and disoriented.
Drivers wearing official-looking uniforms claim to be "government-approved" and charge 3-5x normal rates. They may have fake badges or ID cards.
Women with babies approach asking you to buy milk powder at a nearby shop (not cash). The shop is run by accomplices and charges 5-10x normal price.
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