The hashtag #BoycottBolt has, for the past two days, been trending on Ghanaian social media, particularly on the X platform.
The hashtag took off when an X user told her story of being physically assaulted by a Bolt driver.
The incident has sparked a firestorm of criticism against the popular ride-hailing app, raising concerns about passenger safety and demanding accountability.
Details
Initial reports are that the female passenger was assaulted by the driver of the Bolt in Accra on Saturday, January 29. The victim’s account of the story, which was shared on social media, said she was assaulted by a Bolt driver where she suffered multiple injuries and had her phone confiscated.
Users expressed anger and frustration over the incident, with many calling for an immediate boycott of the Bolt app until the company takes decisive action.
Gaining traction
The hashtag #BoycottBolt quickly gained traction, becoming a rallying point for some Ghanaians demanding justice for the victim and improved safety measures from Bolt.
Users have shared their own experiences with the app, raising concerns about driver screening, background checks and inadequate security protocols. The outcry highlights the growing anxiety about the safety of passengers in Ghana, particularly women who rely on transport services.
Bolt Ghana’s response
In response to the mounting pressure, Bolt Ghana issued a statement expressing his “deep concern” over the alleged incident and assuring the public of a thorough investigation. They have also pledged to provide the victim with any necessary support.
Safety for riders
There have been previous cases of alleged violence against female riders by Bolt Ghana drivers. Although Bolt has added safety features to its app, including audio recording and driver selfie verification, most of these safety features are currently only available in South Africa.
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