Tourist claims pedicab driver pressured her for phone and card

An American tourist has reported being pressured by a pedicab driver to surrender her phone and bank card in what she described as a distressing encounter. Heather Ford, 39, from Florida, claims the incident occurred after she was picked up outside His Majesty's Theatre.

Mrs Ford stated that the driver initially requested her phone under the pretext of taking photographs for her. The alleged incident happened during a journey back to her hotel. She reported feeling unwell and decided to take a pedicab as a quick transport option, believing it to be a tourist-friendly service.

Allegations of coercion

According to Mrs Ford's account, the driver deviated from her route, taking her to a secluded area. It was there, she claims, that the driver demanded payment of £53, asking for £40 in cash and the remainder on card. At this point, a second pedicab driver reportedly approached and asked for her phone, stating he wanted to take pictures. A third man then allegedly appeared and requested her bank card, which Mrs Ford identified as a significant warning sign.

Mrs Ford stated she refused to hand over her phone or card, eventually raising her voice and offering only £10 before proceeding to her hotel. She reported feeling shaken and physically ill following the encounter. She expressed a desire for greater warnings to be provided to tourists in locations such as hotels and train stations to prevent similar incidents.

New regulations on the horizon

The alleged incident comes weeks before new regulations for pedicab drivers are due to be implemented. From November 27, all pedicab drivers operating in London will be required to obtain a licence from Transport for London (TfL). Fares will also become regulated under these new rules, with further regulations anticipated next year.

A spokesperson for TfL acknowledged the incident, expressing sympathy for Mrs Ford. The spokesperson highlighted that operating without a licence will become a criminal offence from November 27. TfL stated these changes aim to ensure pedicabs are operated professionally and to enhance customer confidence in the service. The organisation is collaborating with the police and enforcement officers to implement the new regulations.