Singapore, September 25: A Chinese cab driver in Singapore is under investigation after verbally abusing a woman and her daughter during a ride. The incident occurred when the driver mistook the passenger's ethnicity and became agitated over the destination and route. The ride had been booked through the TADA ride-hailing platform at around 2 pm on Saturday, September 24. According to multiple reports, the driver reportedly became agitated when part of the road was blocked due to the construction of an upcoming metro line.

This led to a heated exchange where he accused the woman of providing incorrect directions and address details, ultimately culminating in racist remarks. The 46-year-old passenger, Janelle Hoeden, who is of Eurasian origin, reported that the driver had started shouting at her as the situation escalated, and Hoeden began recording the interaction on her phone. The video, subsequently shared widely on social media, captured the driver repeatedly asserting that Hoeden's daughter was under 1.35 meters in height and labelling her as "very illegal." Indian-Origin Man Vickreman Harvey Chettiar Charged for Allegedly Calling for Singapore President Halimah Yacob’s Death in Instagram Post.

The video, which was later shared on social media platforms, also captured the driver disputing the height of Hoeden's daughter, insisting that she was below the mandated height of 1.35 meters for safety reasons. Hoeden maintained that her daughter was 1.37 meters tall. During the confrontation, the driver also made derogatory remarks, saying, "You are Indian; I'm Chinese, You are the very worst kind." Hoeden corrected him, asserting her Eurasian identity. Air China Flight Makes Emergency Landing on Singapore Airport Runway After Plane’s Engine Catches Fire, Video Shows Cabin Filled With Smoke and Terrified Passengers.

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) in Singapore mandates that all vehicles must have booster seats or child restraints for passengers under 1.35 meters in height. In response to the incident, Tada Singapore, the ride-hailing company, announced that it was investigating the matter. They emphasised their commitment to not tolerating racism, discrimination, or abuse and vowed to take necessary actions based on their findings.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 25, 2023 09:44 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).