Taxi drivers in New York are facing a troubling rise in thefts known as "tap and snatch" incidents. An organized crew has targeted 22 cab drivers over eight weeks, seizing phones and accessing cash through apps like Zelle and Venmo. Union spokesman Fernando Mateo criticized the NYPD for not alerting drivers about these crimes sooner, emphasizing the increased risk to drivers. The situation is urgent, with victims losing substantial amounts, demonstrating a need for better communication and preventive measures.
Angry cabbies are offering a cash reward for info about a "tap and snatch" crew that's ripped off 22 drivers in 22 precincts over the last eight weeks.
Mateo said, "Cell phones today are the equivalent of cash, and criminals out there know this. So they're no longer putting a gun to your head..."
One unfortunate victim lost $7,000 to the crew, whose members either hail a cab or just jump in the backseat when the driver slows down.
Mateo also pilloried the NYPD for not telling cabbies about the crimes earlier, demanding timely communication to protect drivers.
Collection
[
|
...
]