Bolt South Africa has suspended over 6,000 drivers in the past six months, citing misconduct issues as the primary reason for these actions.
This move mirrors a similar initiative undertaken in Nigeria in November 2023, where over 5,000 drivers faced suspensions for similar reasons.
The suspensions are part of Bolt’s ongoing efforts to tackle driver misconduct and enhance passenger safety.
Recent incidents, including a driver in South Africa charged with stabbing two women in May 2024, and the sentencing of former driver Emmanuel Mudau for serious crimes against female passengers, have heightened public concern and prompted legal actions against the company.
Godrich Gardee Attorneys have threatened to pursue a civil claim against Bolt, alleging failures in ensuring passenger safety.
In response, Bolt has asserted its cooperation with law enforcement and highlighted enhanced security measures, such as audio recordings, driver selfie verification, emergency response access, and trip monitoring.
Since its inception in 2016, Bolt has expanded its operations across multiple African countries, including Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, solidifying its presence in 14 African markets.
However, amidst these expansions, Bolt has refuted claims of significant staff layoffs in Nigeria, asserting its commitment to permanently barring drivers and riders reported for misconduct.
