Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
04 February 2025 | 17:50 CAT

E-hailing drivers in Gauteng face rising threats as criminals pose as passengers.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng has raised serious concerns over a surge in violent crimes targeting e-hailing drivers. As these individuals work long hours to support their families, they find themselves increasingly vulnerable to attacks, often at the hands of criminals posing as passengers.

The latest incident in Eldorado Park has heightened fears, with two young suspects pretending to be customers before robbing an e-hailing driver at gunpoint. The confrontation led to one suspect being shot and killed, while the other was hospitalized.

Speaking to Radio Islam International, DA’s Michael Sun described the trend as deeply troubling.

“This modus operandi is becoming common, where criminals lure drivers by posing as passengers before robbing them at gunpoint. The drivers have no way to determine if a passenger is genuine or a potential attacker,” he said.

The Eldorado Park incident is just one of many reported cases. According to Sun, there has been a worrying increase in such crimes, making it imperative for both law enforcement and e-hailing companies to take decisive action.

“We are calling for intensified patrols by SAPS and JMPD, as well as focused operations to remove illegal firearms from our streets,” he added.

Sun emphasized that e-hailing companies must also play a role in enhancing safety. “Operators need to engage with drivers and implement security measures, such as vehicle modifications to prevent easy access to drivers,” he suggested.

He acknowledged that e-hailing drivers are seen as easy targets due to the nature of their work. The anonymity of app-based ride services makes it difficult for drivers to distinguish between legitimate passengers and potential criminals.

“In some countries, protective shields have been installed in vehicles, preventing direct access between drivers and passengers. This simple measure could be cost-effective and life-saving,” he explained.

Sun further called on community members to assist law enforcement by reporting suspicious activities. “Criminals live within our communities. If you see something, say something. We cannot allow these perpetrators to continue operating freely,” he urged.

Immediate interventions, such as increased law enforcement presence in hotspot areas like Eldorado Park, as well as stronger communication between e-hailing companies, community policing forums, and safety organizations, are necessary to curb the crisis.

As attacks on e-hailing drivers continue to rise, urgent steps must be taken to ensure their safety and protect the livelihoods of many who depend on the industry for survival.

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Annisa Essack and Micheal Sun here.