An Express Report investigation has uncovered an organised Romanian gang controlling the rickshaws that overcharge tourists on Westminster Bridge, despite new laws set to take effect on October 30.
The investigation, led by Investigations Editor Zak Garner-Purkis, found that a large part of the pedicab market in central London is controlled by a collective that bullies honest operators and flouts regulations. The group arrived in batches holding identical laminated signs with extortionate prices, a tactic similar to how begging gangs organise their workers.
New laws fail to deter rogue traders
In 2026, new laws were introduced setting strict price caps, basic English requirements, and background checks for riders. However, few are preparing for the changes, as the gang operates with little fear of being caught or challenged. When police drive down Westminster Bridge, the group scatters to the other side of the road, where they park illegally across a cycle path.
The investigation also observed a similar tactic used by rogue ice cream vans beside the London Eye. An unlicensed operator told Garner-Purkis that the vans' owners absorb council fines as business expenses. When questioned, the vendors fled at a slow speed.
Widespread exploitation in central London
For decades, central London has been plagued by unlicensed vendors whose aim is to fleece people for as much money as possible. The rickshaws charge people hundreds of pounds for short journeys, and the problem extends to other sectors, such as vape stores and barbers' shops, which have overrun British high streets.
Garner-Purkis noted the injustice of those who play by the rules struggling, while those with a brazen disregard profit without consequence. He questioned how such wrongdoing could occur under the noses of MPs in Parliament and police at New Scotland Yard, and what hope the rest of the country has if central London is a safe haven for such behaviour.
