Safety concerns rise as Bolt investigates robbery incident involving branded vehicle

Bolt South Africa has announced that it is investigating an incident involving a Bolt-branded vehicle linked to alleged criminal activity.

The announcement comes after a video circulated on social media showing several men reportedly exiting the vehicle and allegedly robbing two women of their belongings before getting back into the car and driving off.

In a statement released to the media on Friday, Bolt said it was aware of the incident and was working closely with the South African Police Service to establish the facts.

"Bolt South Africa is aware of allegations circulating on social media concerning an incident involving a branded vehicle on our platform. We understand the concern this has caused and want to assure the public that we treat all reports of this nature with the utmost seriousness.'" Bolt said.

"The vehicle involved has been identified, and an investigation is currently underway. We are engaging closely with the relevant fleet and will fully cooperate with the South African Police Service (SAPS) as the matter progresses".

The company added that it has "zero tolerance for criminal behaviour on our platform" and called on users or anyone who experiences or witnesses unsafe or suspicious behaviour to report it immediately.

"The safety and well-being of our riders, drivers, and the broader community remain our highest priority, and we will continue to take all necessary steps to uphold this commitment. We encourage anyone who experiences or witnesses unsafe or suspicious behaviour to report it immediately using the in-app safety tools and to report the matter to the South African Police Service.

"Bolt remains committed to continuously strengthening safety measures and working with stakeholders to ensure a safe and reliable e-hailing environment for all South Africans".

mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za

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