This is evident from a video circulating on social media a group of taxi drivers brutal beating a tourist in front of the famous Coco Bongo nightclub in Playa del Carmen.
The footage shows seven taxi drivers punching and kicking a man lying on the ground because he refused to pay an overcharged fee.
The tourist’s female companion also tries to protect him, but the attackers push her back and continue to beat him mercilessly.
This fact has sparked outrage among residents. It has also raised the issue of unlawful fares charged by taxi drivers in Playa del Carmen and other tourist destinations in Quintana Roo.
Lack of regulation and high prices in Quintana Roo
The taxi industry is currently monopolized by unions who have imposed increasingly exorbitant fares in recent years.
In late 2023, cases of fares exceeding $595 for a trip from the airport to Tulum city center were reported. At the same time, a transfer from the airport to Playa del Carmen can cost up to US$238.
Also read: A taxi ride from Tulum airport is more expensive than in Paris
Social rejection and call for justice
The brutal beating of the tourist in front of Coco Bongo has drawn strong condemnation from civil society. Several sectors called on authorities to take measures to regulate taxi transport in Quintana Roo to prevent such attacks from happening again.
Safety tips for traveling by taxi in Quintana Roo
Traveling by taxi in Quintana Roo can be a convenient and efficient way to get around, but it’s important to stay safe.
Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
Use taxi ppps: If available, use reputable taxi apps such as Uber, Didi or Cabify. These apps provide details about the driver and vehicle, and the fare is calculated automatically, minimizing the risk of overcharging.
Agree on the rate before the ride: If you use a traditional taxi without a meter, agree on the fare to your destination before the start of the trip to avoid confusion or conflict later.
Take a bus or train: A good way to avoid conflict is to take the bus or train instead.
Be respectful: It’s important to be respectful, even in a bad situation. By being friendly to drivers you can prevent escalation and conflict.
