Uber: a lucrative business but dangerous nonetheless
WHILE being an Uber driver may provide a lucrative income, the business comes with some risk. This is according Uber driver and partner Robert Mabokela, who has been in the business for at least three years.
“The business, if you work hard enough, is a good business to go into. For three years I have never gone to bed hungry due to the business. However, it has its dangers,” he said.
At the weekend, an Uber driver was shot three times while making a drop-off in Mitchells Plain.
Police spokesperson FC van Wyk said police received a complaint at 10.10pm in Mustang Way, Westridge on Saturday.
“According to reports, the driver had picked up two unidentified male clients in Goodwood and brought them to Mitchells Plain. They then pulled a firearm on the driver and shot him in the neck area. The suspects thereafter fled on foot with the victim’s cellphone. The Uber driver is a 42-year-old man. He was driving a white Toyota Etios,” said Van Wyk.
He said the motive for the attack is believed to have been robbery. A charge of attempted murder had been added and the Uber driver was taken to hospital for treatment.
Uber spokesperson Samantha Allenberg said the company was shocked to learn of the incident.
“As soon as we heard about this incident, our Incident Response Team reached out to the family to offer our support, and our Law Enforcement Team is working closely with the police to assist in their investigation.
“Crime is an unfortunate reality in SA and, while no means of transportation can be 100% incident- or accident-free, technology can improve safety by creating accountability and transparency where previously there was none. There is no excuse for the violent act described; these criminals must be brought to justice,” she said.
Mabokela said Uber often sent drivers notifications about high-risk areas.
“We do get information on dangerous roads and areas. Even if there are protests or roadblocks, we are alerted. Some of the dangerous areas are Manenberg, Hanover Park, Nyanga, Gugulethu, and even as far as Wynberg and Plumstead,” he said.
Makobela said safety was dependent on the drivers themselves. “We do feel targeted and that is why it’s important for drivers to be vigilant at all times. Go to safer areas and be observant when on the road,” said Makobela.
Meanwhile, the City’s Transport Enforcement Unit impounded 57 Uber vehicles in the Green Point/Cape Town Central area at the weekend.
Mayco member for Safety, Security and Social Services JP Smith said impoundments were effected as a result of drivers not having operating licences.
“We remind the public and Uber operators that all public transport operators are required to have valid operating licences, and that no one is above the law,” said Smith.