The ride-hailing platform Bolt has praised the Lagos State Police Command for its successful crackdown on armed robbery gangs targeting e-hailing drivers. The company expressed gratitude for the police’s efforts in apprehending seven gangs responsible for attacks, including the tragic deaths of drivers operating on platforms like Bolt, Uber, and inDrive.
Police Swiftly Dismantle Criminal Networks
In a statement, Bolt highlighted the police’s dedication to ensuring safety and security in Lagos. Recent arrests included suspects linked to two gruesome incidents. In January, a driver was lured from Chevron, Lekki, to Obalende, where he was fatally attacked and robbed. In another case, a three-man gang abducted Oluwaseyi Fowler, an e-hailing driver, in Ajah, killed him, and sold his stolen Toyota Camry to a criminal buyer.
Bolt Lauds the Police’s Efforts
Osi Oguah, Bolt Nigeria’s General Manager, commended the police for their prompt actions, describing their response as “swift and decisive.” He reiterated Bolt’s commitment to safety, emphasizing the company’s ongoing investment in technology, partnerships, and resources to protect both drivers and riders.
“The safety of our driver-partners and riders is our top priority. We’ll continue to work closely with law enforcement, regulators, and stakeholders to create a safer environment for mobility services,” Oguah stated.
Safety Challenges and Solutions
With approximately 10,000 drivers using the Bolt app daily in Lagos, safety concerns are significant. Bolt has made considerable investments to address these issues, including a €100 million safety initiative announced in November 2024. The initiative includes commissioning over 500 global safety experts to develop preventative measures, improve platform security, and educate users on safety features.
Oguah emphasized the importance of leveraging in-app safety tools, such as real-time trip sharing and the SOS button, and urged drivers to strictly follow platform guidelines. He also advised drivers to avoid accepting trips outside the app to ensure journeys are properly documented and insured.
Authorities’ Recommendations
Lagos State Police Commissioner, CP Olarenwaju Ishola, advised drivers to exercise caution by screening passengers, limiting rides to a single passenger where possible, and positioning riders in the front seat for better observation.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Transport, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, also called for comprehensive background checks for drivers and riders alike. This would enhance trust and safety for both parties. While Bolt currently offers rider verification, questions remain about whether it meets the comprehensive standards drivers are requesting.
Addressing Broader Safety Concerns
Bolt’s Safety Awareness Campaign, launched in November 2024, focuses on educating drivers and riders about safety measures. The campaign highlights the platform’s features designed to prevent incidents before they occur.
Ultimately, ensuring safer e-hailing services requires a collaborative effort between companies, law enforcement, and regulators. As Bolt continues to prioritize safety, drivers and riders are encouraged to remain vigilant and utilize the platform’s tools to mitigate risks.
