Hi all,
If you are thinking of heading to Thailand or Bali be careful - or better still just give both destinations a miss.
I have just been talking with a friend who was caught up with this new scam called Zig Zaging.
This was also covered recently on Australian TV reports where a couple were split up after being arrested for a theft. No stolen property was found on either of them. They were split up and taken to different locations and money was demanded for their freedom.
Basically, it involves government officials - customs, quarantine and even Police. You are stopped for an infringement or a trumped up charge.
The officials appear very corrupt.
It is a long standing rip off in both countries when you get in a cab on your own. You cannot place the seat belt on as the buckle is on the rear floor or out of reach under the seat.
The driver flashes his headlights at the Police who pull the cab over. You have not got the seat belt on and a demand is made for the amount of $20
The money is split between the Police and the cab driver later.
They have just raised the dollars - the recent television exposure saw a demand for $8,000. involving Police, customs and Government officials.
After talking with my friend who was caught up in a minor demand for money I have both countries on a STAY AWAY ALERT...
For what it is worth....
