Ben McGarry’s harrowing experience in Manila began with a seemingly innocuous encounter outside his hostel. A man claiming to be a security guard engaged him in friendly conversation and invited him to meet his “aunt” and her colleague. Despite initial caution, Ben agreed, leading to a day filled with conviviality, including shared meals and drinks. Unbeknownst to him, this camaraderie was a façade orchestrated by a group of scammers.
The turning point came when the elderly woman offered Ben a slice of mango, which he consumed out of politeness. Shortly after, he lost consciousness. He later awoke disoriented, missing valuable possessions including his camera, iPhone, and cash, totaling nearly AU$7,000. Medical evaluations revealed he had been drugged with Lorazepam, a sedative known for inducing amnesia. The incident left him not only financially depleted but also emotionally traumatized, grappling with feelings of violation and vulnerability.Ben In Wanderland
Despite the ordeal, Ben found solace in the kindness of strangers who assisted him in the aftermath. Reflecting on the experience, he acknowledged his oversight in not thoroughly researching potential scams in the region. While the incident shook his confidence, it also reinforced his belief in the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of vigilance while traveling.
