Conduct thorough checks on drivers of ride-hailing companies

Dear Editor,

Ordering a ride through a ride-hailing app has become a convenient part of modern life. However, for some passengers, what begins as an ordinary journey to their destination can quickly turn into a frightening fight for survival.

In recent times, concerns over the safety and security of passengers have grown, with some people sharing disturbing accounts of alleged attacks by drivers of ride-hailing companies such as Bolt and Yango.

One such incident was narrated to me by a lady who said she narrowly escaped what could have been a deadly encounter with a driver.

According to her, she booked a ride and was on her way to her destination when the driver suddenly cancelled the trip. The driver then stopped the car, got out, and asked her to step out of the vehicle.

She said that, to her shock, the driver pointed a gun at her and ordered her to get back into the car.

Realising the danger she acted quickly, as she banged the car door and began raising an alarm. Her reaction apparently startled the driver, who immediately got back into the car and drove away.

Thankfully, she escaped unharmed. But the incident raises serious questions about passenger safety and the measures being taken by ride-hailing companies to protect their customers.

I therefore urge ride-hailing companies to strengthen their driver-vetting procedures and work closely with the Ghana Police Service to identify, investigate, arrest, and prosecute drivers who may use their platforms to facilitate criminal activities.

Passenger safety should not be treated as an afterthought. People who entrust their lives to ride-hailing services deserve to have confidence that every reasonable measure has been taken to protect them.

I also appeal to the general public to remain cautious and vigilant when ordering rides, particularly late at night. Passengers should verify the driver’s details and vehicle before entering, share their trip information with trusted family members or friends, and avoid ignoring any situation that makes them feel unsafe.

Convenience should never come at the expense of security. Ride-hailing companies, law enforcement agencies, and passengers all have a role to play in making our roads safer.

From Akosua.

Dansoman