Rising Attacks on E-Hailing Drivers: Cape Town Police Arrest Robbery Suspects

The robbery of an e-hailing driver in Cape Town, which took place on 24 December 2024, has drawn widespread attention and condemnation from those affected. The victim, identified as Ali, was called for a pick-up at Hadji Ebrahim Crescent in Rylands. Upon his arrival, he was pounced on by three young men who approached the vehicle with one of them pulling out a knife and threatening him with offensive language. The attackers then stole Ali’s belongings, which included his cell phone, point-of-sale machine and cash. The footage from the vehicle’s dashcam has since gone viral and has sparked widespread concern.

Following the investigations that have been carried out, the Western Cape police have arrested three suspects aged between 18 and 21 in connection with the robbery. The arrest was made in Athlone and the suspects are due to appear in court on Monday. The case, has been registered with the police and has drawn attention to the growing safety concerns facing e-hailing drivers, especially during the busy festive season. Western Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed that all three individuals were apprehended and are facing serious charges.

Siyabonga Hlabisa, chairperson of the Western Cape E-Hailing Association, expressed relief over the arrests, noting the tireless efforts of the association’s safety officer and local law enforcement. Hlabisa emphasized that the safety of drivers is increasingly under threat, particularly during high-traffic periods when criminals often target individuals in vulnerable positions. He further stressed that ensuring the safety of both drivers and passengers is an urgent priority, especially as hijackings have been becoming a more frequent and a dangerous reality.

Meanwhile, a similar incident in Belgravia, Athlone, on the same day, also raised alarms about the safety of Uber drivers. In this case, the suspects were part of the notorious IGB gang from Hanover Park and after the robbery, they managed to escape arrest. However, the suspects were tracked down to Mitchell’s Plain with the help of City of Cape Town’s Safety and Security Investigations Unit (SSIU). The Investigators were able to retrieve the stolen phone and secure key evidence, leading to the eventual arrests.

Alderman JP Smith, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, emphasized the need for increased investigative resources to tackle such criminal activities. Smith further highlighted the importance of expanding municipal investigative jurisdiction to support the police in bringing criminals to justice. As the community grapples with an alarming rise in attacks on drivers, Smith remains committed to advocating for more effective measures to ensure the safety of those on the frontlines.

Both cases underscore the urgent need for greater protection of e-hailing drivers, who continue to face daily risks. The attacks have not only shaken the drivers’ community but also highlighted the broader concerns over public safety in the region. As authorities intensify their efforts, the push for enhanced safety measures and stronger law enforcement continues to grow.