Tourists in London are allegedly being conned by a Romanian gang, according to the Daily Express

An investigation published by the Daily Express claims that unlicensed pedicab operators and street vendors are carrying out a coordinated operation in busy tourist areas of central London, including near the British Parliament and the New Scotland Yard headquarters.

Journalists documented the activities of pedicab operators, also known as “pedicabs”, who are accused of charging tourists hundreds of pounds for short rides. Zak Garner-Purkis, the publication’s investigations editor, says that legally operating drivers told him they were being intimidated by members of a group. According to the investigation, the group is allegedly made up of Romanians, although these accusations are presented as the journalists’ accounts and observations.

The operators allegedly disperse when police arrive on Westminster Bridge and return after the officers leave. Some pedicabs are said to have been parked in cycle lanes. Similar problems have been reported in the London Eye area, where ice-cream vendors are also allegedly operating without the necessary permits.

Following the controversy, British authorities announced stricter rules for the sector, which are expected to take effect on October 30, 2026. The measures include fare caps, background checks and English-language requirements. The investigation claims that many operators in Westminster do not appear to be preparing for the new regime.