Question 1

What is the "Express Kidnapping in Unlicensed Night Taxis" scam in Panama City?

Accepted Answer

In El Cangrejo and Marbella neighbourhoods after midnight, unlicensed taxis pick up solo passengers and drive to one or more ATMs, forcing the victim at implied or explicit threat to withdraw the daily maximum. The driver may have accomplices who join at a pre-arranged stop. Victims are typically released unharmed after the withdrawal but the financial loss averages USD 300–500 per incident. This crime category is locally called "secuestro exprés" and is specifically linked to unmarked vehicles operating outside the regulated taxi zones. Never hail a taxi from the street after dark in El Cangrejo or Marbella. Use only the Uber app or call a registered radio taxi such as Taxi Único or ask your hotel or restaurant to call a confirmed taxi for you. Share your live location with a contact before getting in any vehicle at night.

Question 2

What is the "Taxi Flat Rate Overcharge" scam in Panama City?

Accepted Answer

Panama City's taxi system uses zones rather than meters, and many drivers quote tourist fares significantly above the zone rate, especially from Tocumen International Airport. A legal airport-to-city fare is around $25–30, but drivers often quote $50–80. Use Uber (available in Panama City) or confirm the exact zone fare from the official rate card before getting in.

Taxi & Transport Scams in Panama City

Express Kidnapping in Unlicensed Night Taxis

Taxi Flat Rate Overcharge

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