“I Understand A Little Thai!” M’sian Family Almost “Kidnapped” in Bangkok Due to Driver's Suspicious Phone Call

Amid the anticipation of a well-planned vacation to unwind from the daily grind, one Malaysian woman recently faced unexpected challenges in Bangkok, Thailand, prompting her to share a cautionary tale on social media, emphasizing the importance for Malaysians to remain vigilant while holidaying and be mindful of potential risks.

Taking to Facebook, the woman recounted her family's ordeal…

Photo via Facebook (房美琪)

The unsettling incident unfolded on the family's second day in Bangkok when they hired a driver for a day of exploration, compensating him around 1,500 Baht (approximately RM196). 

Alarming behavior surfaced when the driver incessantly made 5 to 6 phone calls in a mere 20 minutes – a peculiar conduct for someone in his position. Fortunately, the woman's aunt, who possessed a basic understanding of Thai, intercepted the driver's dubious conversation, which hinted at a larger scheme.

The situation escalated when the driver insisted on an extended route, claiming it would take an hour instead of the 30 minutes indicated by the woman's GPS. Recognizing the potential danger, the family wisely canceled their plans, prompting the driver to resist and advocate for an alternative destination. When the family sought refuge in a nearby cafe after paying the driver at a gas station, their suspicions were confirmed as the driver promptly departed without refueling.

In addition to recounting her family's experience, the woman shared local warnings about a potential alliance between certain hotels and unlicensed cab drivers. These drivers, she claimed, might lead unsuspecting tourists into hazardous situations. Furthermore, she underscored advice from locals to avoid consuming bottled water provided in the car, as it could be tampered with.

While the woman couldn't definitively confirm if her family was a specific target, her objective in sharing the story was clear – to heighten awareness among fellow Malaysians about potential risks during travels. 

This unsettling incident serves as a poignant reminder for everyone to exercise caution, remain vigilant in unfamiliar surroundings, and prioritize personal safety during holiday adventures. The collective sharing of such experiences is crucial in fostering awareness and ensuring the safety of fellow travelers.