Bolt protects riders after driver jailed
In light of the two life imprisonment terms served on ex-Bolt driver Emmanuel Mudau, who preyed on women requesting transport in 2022, Bolt has introduced new safety features.
On Friday, the High Court in Johannesburg sentenced the 30-year-old former Bolt driver to two life imprisonment terms and 60 years for rape, kidnapping and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
His victims were women who used the app to seek transport from Cosmo City, Johannesburg, to other locations between January 2022 and February 2022.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Mudau transported riders to remote locations, where he told them to undress and raped them.
In two separate incidents, two complainants tried to run away, but one was stabbed and the other was strangled to force them to succumb to his demands.
Bolt commended the police and justice system for their efforts in securing a conviction.
“Throughout the investigation, Bolt cooperated fully with law enforcement authorities, providing all necessary information and assistance to aid in the successful arrest and prosecution of the suspect,” Bolt spokesperson Mahlodi Molekane said.
The e-hailing company added that it condemned any form of abuse or violence against women.
“Bolt has a zero-tolerance policy towards drivers who engage in misconduct or criminal behaviour.
“Our platform has no place for individuals who perpetrate such heinous acts.”
In an effort to enhance rider safety, the company said it has implemented new safety features.
These include giving drivers and riders access to an emergency response service in the app through a partnership with the Automobile Association (AA).
When this service is activated, private security and emergency services are sent out and the driver and rider’s details and location are shared with AA’s 24/7 contact centre.
If they feel unsafe while travelling, drivers and riders can start an audio recording of their journey through the Bolt app and submit the recorded audio to Bolt’s customer support team.
Bolt will now be able to automatically engage with drivers and passengers in-app when a vehicle is stationary for too long. The company has also introduced a driver selfie verification feature to avoid driver impersonation.
“Our thoughts are with the complainants and their families,” NPA regional spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said. “We, however, hope they find solace in that the perpetrator has been removed from society.”