Five taxi drivers arrested for alleged fraud over fake claims in Tai Po free ride scheme

Police arrested five local taxi drivers aged 29 to 40 across Hong Kong on Monday for suspected fraud after they allegedly falsified trip records to claim expenses from a free ride program launched during the deadly Wang Fuk Court fire in Tai Po.

The drivers involved had taken part in a support service program transporting passengers to and from three hospitals and seven temporary shelters during the Tai Po fire.

Upon reviewing claims, the platform identified seven suspicious records totalling around HK$3,000 in requested reimbursements, suspected to be fabricated.

The Wan Chai district police investigated and detained the five men on attempted fraud charges. All suspects have been released on bail and must report back to police in late January.

The platform did not suffer any losses in the case.