In a distressing incident, a TADA ride-hailing driver, Peh Boon Hua, faced legal repercussions after hurling racist remarks at a female passenger. The 54-year-old driver was initially charged with deliberately wounding racial feelings, but the charge was later amended to using insulting words causing distress. Peh pleaded guilty to the amended charge, resulting in a S$3,000 fine.
2. Dispute Over Drop-off Location
According to CNA, The unfortunate incident unfolded when a 46-year-old female passenger, accompanied by her nine-year-old daughter, booked a TADA ride from Pasir Ris using the ride-hailing app. A malfunction in the app prevented her from setting the correct drop-off location, leading to a dispute.
3. Argument Escalates During the Ride
Peh Boon Hua, assigned to the job, picked up the passenger and her daughter but faced challenges finding the specified location. A disagreement ensued, leading to a heated argument between the driver and the passenger. The tension escalated as Peh made a U-turn and proceeded towards a different location, exacerbating the dispute, reported CNA.
4. Racist Remarks and Offensive Language
The situation took a disturbing turn when Peh resorted to racist remarks, yelling at the passenger about her ethnicity. In the midst of the argument, he incorrectly identified her as Indian and used derogatory language. The victim, a Singaporean Eurasian, corrected Peh, who continued to shout racially insensitive comments, leaving the passenger feeling unsafe and deeply offended.
5. Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Peh Boon Hua’s actions resulted in legal consequences, with the prosecution seeking a fine between S$3,000 and S$4,000. The court emphasized that the overtly racial nature of the insults was unacceptable, stressing that such language has no place in Singapore. Peh’s early guilty plea and lack of prior convictions were considered in mitigation, leading to a S$3,000 fine.
6. TADA’s Response and Permanent Ban
TADA, the ride-hailing platform involved, took immediate action by suspending Peh from their platform and conducting a thorough investigation. In response to the incident, a TADA spokesperson announced that Peh is now permanently banned from working as a driver on their platform. The spokesperson condemned Peh’s racial remarks, emphasizing TADA’s commitment to fostering an environment built on respect and understanding.
7. Lessons Learned and Community Guidelines
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining respect and avoiding racial or derogatory comments, even in challenging circumstances. TADA’s spokesperson urged users to uphold community guidelines, emphasizing the platform’s commitment to providing safe and respectful rides for everyone.
8. Conclusion
The shocking incident involving a TADA driver’s racist remarks highlights the need for continued efforts to eliminate racial insensitivity and discrimination. As legal proceedings conclude, it serves as a critical moment for reflection on the values of tolerance and inclusivity within the community.