Robbed of valuables by cabby, foreign tourist stuck in Puri for a month

A Netherlands national is reportedly stuck in Puri for over a month now after he was allegedly robbed of his valuables by a taxi driver in the pilgrim town on January 25.

The tourist has been identified as Anthony Van Arkel. Rendered penniless by the theft, he has been staying at the Niladri Nilay shelter since then.

As per reports, Anthony was allegedly robbed by a taxi driver during his visit to the coastal town in January. The taxi driver allegedly decamped with cash worth Rs 6 lakh, a diamond ring and Anthony’s camera.

After losing everything, Anthony went to the police and lodged a complaint. He has appealed to the Odisha government to help him find his money so that he can go back to his home country.

“The driver stole my money and my cards. He stole my watch, my diamond ring and money when I was at his house. I request the police and the government to help me move out of Puri and catch my flight back home Netherlands,” Anthony pleaded in front of the camera.

Social worker Daniel Nayak who has been helping Anthony all along said, “I request the administration to nab the accused driver and help Anthony so that he can reach his home safely.”

Following the complaint, the police have found the taxi and seized it. But the accused driver is still at large.

Meanwhile, the Puri SP has informed that the Netherlands embassy will be contacted and appropriate steps will be taken to send the tourist home safely.