Durban, KwaZulu-Natal – The KwaZulu-Natal E-Hailing Council has raised urgent concerns over a surge in violent crimes targeting e-hailing drivers and passengers, calling for immediate safety measures to curb the escalating threat.
In recent months, multiple incidents of kidnappings, assaults, and killings have been reported, with criminals exploiting digital platforms to lure victims. The council has launched awareness campaigns urging users to remain vigilant, but the violence persists.
Latest Tragedy Highlights Risks
The council’s chairperson, Sipho Mabika, confirmed the recent murder of a 22-year-old e-hailing driver whose body was discovered in a morgue weeks after he went missing. The victim, a recent graduate who had just started working, was allegedly attacked after picking up passengers who turned out to be criminals.
Mabika described the harrowing scene: “We found his car abandoned, stripped of parts, and covered in blood.” The assailants reportedly robbed the driver of his phone, cash, and vehicle parts.
Criminals Exploit Platform Weaknesses
Mabika blamed lax verification processes by e-hailing companies, allowing criminals to register with fake SIM cards and pose as passengers or drivers. “They request a ride, and when the driver arrives, they attack,” he explained.
In some cases, criminals impersonate drivers, picking up unsuspecting passengers who fail to verify vehicle details. Last week, authorities arrested a fake e-hailing driver linked to a robbery after the council traced the vehicle’s license plate.
Urgent Safety Measures Needed
Mabika urged passengers to:
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Verify the driver and license plate before entering a vehicle.
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Share trip details with trusted contacts for real-time tracking.
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Report mismatched vehicles immediately.
He also called on e-hailing companies to strengthen identity checks and improve response systems for emergencies.
Community and Authorities Must Act
With the death toll rising, the council is pushing for tighter regulations and collaboration with law enforcement. Mabika warned, “If we don’t act now, more lives will be lost.”
As investigations continue, the KZN E-Hailing Council remains on high alert, pleading with both drivers and passengers to prioritize safety in an increasingly dangerous environment.
