An Uber driver was attacked and robbed by his passengers in Lotus River this week, Cape {town} Etc reports.
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The City of Cape Town’s law enforcement officers patrolled the area when a public member flagged them down. The man told them he had been attacked, stabbed in his back and his belongings robbed while working as an Uber driver.
According to JP Smith, the City’s Mayco member for safety and security, officers then proceeded in the last known direction of the suspects before spotting them. ‘A foot chase ensued and all three suspects were captured.
‘In their possession, two knives were discovered, as well as the victim’s wallet and phone. The victim thereby positively identified all of the suspects,’ Smith says.
The three suspects were arrested and handed to the Grassy Park police station.
‘Criminals have readily taken to plundering the marvels introduced through modern technology. With apps and social media tools meant to improve our lives, criminals have found the vulnerabilities that exist and stand ready to exploit these,’ Smith adds.
‘With much of this technology reliant on smartphones, criminals often target users of these platforms. Those working on e-hailing platforms and delivery services are often targeted much the same.’
Smith says Uber customers need to ensure the safety of their drivers by making sure they don’t wait too long on the street. ‘Use the app’s features to see their trip progress and meet them at the entrance, or where safe to do so, close to the road. Avoid keeping them waiting where they can become victims.
‘If you make use of an e-hailing service, ensure you have a personal profile completed, along with an extensive trip history.
‘Avoid paying cash for trips – increasingly the drivers on these platforms will avoid these “suspicious” trips.’
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