THE police in Kenya are investigating an incident where a Nigerian man (unidentified) was beaten to a pulp by a mob after he reportedly physically assaulted a female Bolt driver.
According to Technext, a lady who identified herself as the driver’s daughter, reported this on X (formerly Twitter).
Bolt further confirmed the matter, noting that the case is currently under investigation by the Kenyan police.
The victim’s daughter claims that the Nigerian man had hailed the cab through the Bolt app on Saturday night near Viraj International Academy in Mlolongo, along Katani Road. When the trip commenced, the alleged assailant reportedly turned aggressive towards the driver and started attacking her.
The man reportedly attacked the lady driver, identified simply as Lillian, with a stone and a shattered soda bottle, with the assailant reportedly striking her head repeatedly. The severity of the attack caused Lillian to lose control of her vehicle, ultimately leading it to veer off the road and end up in a pit.
In the ensuing commotion, the Bolt driver availed herself of an opportunity to exit the vehicle, quickly seeking safety. The incident drew the attention of the public who arrived at the scene. According to the driver’s daughter, the mob proceeded to beat up the assailant until he was in a coma. He was thereafter saved by members of the Kenyan police.
According to Techweez, the female driver suffered injuries as a result of the occurrence. Nonetheless, she is receiving medical care at Aga Khan Hospital and her recovery appears to be progresss in well according to her daughter.
Following accusations that Bolt Kenya is yet to do anything about the assault of its driver, the company responded that it was deeply concerned about the incident and helping the police in its investigation.
In a statement posted on their X platform, Bolt App Kenya remarked: “We are deeply concerned about this regrettable incident, as we firmly stand against violence within our system. We are presently looking into this issue and maintaining communication with all involved parties.”
The ride-hailing company said it is committed to collaborating with the police as they delve into the matter. However, given the sensitive nature of the case, it will refrain from further comments until the investigation is concluded.
Bolt asserts its cooperation with law enforcement to thoroughly investigate the incident. On the contrary, Lillian’s daughter stated that the police present at the scene refrained from arresting the suspect due to his critical condition.
This incident presents yet another challenge for Bolt Kenya, which is striving to enhance safety for both its drivers and clients.
