Assaulted e-hailing drivers seek justice after weekend attacks in Chatsworth

E-hailing drivers gathered outside Chatsworth Police Station on Monday, demanding justice and safety measures. The ongoing safety concerns surrounding e-hailing drivers in South Africa took a dramatic turn this past weekend when multiple drivers claim they wereassaulted at Chatsworth Centrein Chatsworth, Durban. Confirming one of the assault cases, KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Sergeant Thenjiswa Ngcobo said police in Chatsworth are investigating a case of assault after an incident where a 22-year-old man was allegedly assaulted by an unknown suspect on Saturday along Kingfisher Drive at Welbedacht East.

The KZN E-Hailing Council and several e-hailing drivers gathered outside Chatsworth Police Station on Monday, calling for the arrest of those who attacked e-hailing drivers at Chatsworth Centre on Saturday. Although details are still sketchy, it is alleged that e-hailing drivers were gathered at the parking lot at Chatsworth Centre as e-hailing drivers were approached by security guards. Two representatives from the KZN E-Hailing Council went with them, while the drivers were asked to wait outside.

A man believed to be a Chatsworth taxi boss arrived, and then the e-hailing drivers claim that firearms were pointed at them. E-hailing driver L Mthembu said he tried to leave the scene but was assaultedand he has opened an assault case at Chatsworth police station. E-hailing driver L Mthembu said he tried to leave the scene but was assaulted