DURBAN - A Bolt driver was assaulted and allegedly extorted in Durban.
Sphelele Gumede says three men attacked him outside Phoenix Plaza.
He claims he was then held hostage at a local taxi association office, where R5,000 was demanded for the return of his vehicle.
Gumede says he had just dropped off a client when three men entered his car and began assaulting him.
He alleges they told him he was not allowed to operate at the plaza and ordered him to drive to the taxi association’s offices.
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There, his car was impounded and he was instructed to pay R5,000.
Gumede says he sustained serious injuries during the assault and is struggling to move his neck.
A case has been opened.
KwaZulu-Natal Transport MEC Siboniso Duma has condemned the alleged assault and extortion.
“In KZN, there should be no no-go zones for e-hailing drivers, and their assault or murder will not be tolerated,” Duma said.